In what is a significant step taken forward by Irish Ferries for sustainability and innovation is the transition of its high-speed craft, Dublin Swift, on the Dublin–Holyhead route to hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO).
The HVO used for the faster seasonal Ireland-Wales sailings is supplied by Circle K, the fuel and convenience retailer.
Irish Ferries is the first known international ferry company in the UK & Ireland to transition to HVO to power one of its ferries, reflecting the operator’s commitment to sustainability. The groundbreaking move marks a major milestone in the ferry sector, showcasing the company's dedication to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing environmental stewardship.
Dublin Swift which entered service seven years ago in April 2018 on the Dublin-Holyhead route, takes just 135 minutes and is the fastest service across the Irish Sea, which resumed this season, as Afloat reported last week, and will see the craft transition to using HVO. The high-speed craft operates on the Ireland-Wales route along with the cruise ferry Ulysses, ropax Isle of Inisheer, and next month is to see the reintroduction of the recently acquired cruise ferry James Joyce from Baltic state operator Tallink.
Irish Ferries aims to ramp up usage of HVO as a diesel alternative to 100% on all four engines of the Dublin Swift, which would result in up to 90% less carbon emissions compared to conventional diesel. This is part of the company’s broader strategy to adopt cleaner energy solutions that reduces the impact of its operations on the environment and is where it is making a proactive approach to integrating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices.
Reduction of Carbon Emissions
HVO is a completely fossil-free biofuel made from waste by-products and derived products not intended for human consumption from the food industry. It can be used to power diesel vehicles, which means it does not release any additional carbon emissions into the atmosphere and is a cleaner and more sustainable fuel option. By utilizing HVO, the company cites that it is not only reducing its carbon emissions but also contributing to the circular economy by repurposing waste materials.
The transition to HVO is expected to lower the Dublin Swift's service's carbon footprint, making the company, it claims, one of the most eco-friendly ferry services in operation.
Andrew Sheen, Managing Director at Irish Ferries, commented, "We are thrilled to be leading the way in the UK and Ireland ferry sector with the adoption of HVO for our Dublin Swift service. This move not only demonstrates our commitment to innovation but also highlights our dedication to reducing carbon emissions and protecting the environment. We are proud to partner with Circle K as a supplier in this endeavor and look forward to seeing the positive impact of this transition."
Circle K is providing its certified low-emission diesel alternative, milesBIO HVO100, to power the Dublin Swift service, as the company will be a valuable partner in Irish Ferries' journey towards greener operations. The collaboration is part of Circle K’s broader efforts to expand access to low-emission fuel solutions across both road and maritime transport and reflects the importance of industry partnerships in driving environmental innovation and delivering on sustainability goals.
