Biofuel at Yacht Club de Monaco

 

Thursday 19th January 2021. In line with the Principality’s environmental policy, YCM continues the transition to cleaner energy sources for its fleet. Out goes a polluting fuel to be replaced by a 100% sustainable eco-circular synthetic biofuel from recycling. The goal: to minimise carbon impact on the sea.

 

Nothing lost, everything to gain

After boosting its tender fleet last year with three electric tenders for supervising sailing pupils in the Sports Section and for the Club’s regattas, then equipping the YCM Marina with rapid-charging stations for electric boats, the Yacht Club de Monaco has decided to replace the fuel used on its vessels by a certified 100% sustainable energy source. Compatible with all diesel engines, this eco-circular synthetic biofuel has its origins in the food industry, as it is produced by refining waste cooking oils. Nothing is lost, everything is converted with this initiative that can reduce carbon impact by 85%. The Club’s current committee boat Seabus is the first vessel in YCM fleet to make the switch, which it did today, to be followed by the Club’s flagship Tuiga.

 

An obvious choice

The biofuel’s numerous advantages include a significant reduction in greenhouse gas and particulate emissions, elimination of exhaust fumes and odours, reduced engine noise in harbour areas, and ability to maximise its autonomy. It is also guaranteed not to cause marine pollution in the event of an accident and leakage at sea. Called BTL.Re and supplied by Romano-Energy, the biofuel demonstrates traceability back to its origins. YCM will be methodically monitoring it through a protocol of regular analysis of the engine oil on converted vessels which will be carried out after each oil change to gain a clearer picture of its impact.

 

Ever more committed

Organiser of the one-of-its-kind Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, the aim of which is to promote and develop alternatives to conventional fuels (next edition: 6-10 July 2021), Yacht Club de Monaco continues to consolidate its intention to be a major player in protecting the environment. This latest initiative follows the recent launch of the Superyacht Eco Association (SEA) Index, a benchmark to measure the environmental impact of 40+m yachts. SEA Index is designed to help owners assess and improve their yacht’s environmental performance with the overriding aim to reduce carbon emissions.