Axpo and Italian ferry operator GNV (MSC Group), supported by the Maritime Authority of Genoa, have completed Italy’s first ship-to-ship bio-LNG bunkering operation at the Port of Genoa. The move marks a significant milestone for the Italian ferry sector’s energy transition and further reinforces both companies’ roles in advancing sustainable marine fuels.
The operation involved refuelling the GNV Virgo, the first Italian long-distance ro-pax vessel powered by LNG to operate on a regular route. Produced from organic waste, bio-LNG is a renewable alternative to conventional LNG and offers markedly lower environmental impact.
When powered by bio-LNG—subject to availability—the dual-fuel GNV Virgo will operate in line with European decarbonisation objectives, including the EU’s target of carbon neutrality by 2050.
GNV CEO Matteo Catani said: “This moment represents a true turning point for GNV in reducing the environmental impact of our fleet… confirming our commitment to increasingly sustainable and competitive shipping.” He added that while GNV aims to make bio-LNG a structural part of operations, wider availability, investment and supply-chain development are essential.
Axpo Italia CEO Simone Demarchi said: “We’re proud to be contributing to innovation and sustainability in maritime transport with GNV… In particular, we extend our thanks to the Western Ligurian Port Authority and the Genoa Harbour Master’s Office for their invaluable support.”
The six-hour bunkering operation transferred 500 cbm of bio-LNG to GNV Virgo, enough for the vessel’s return voyage to Palermo. Axpo, GNV and local authorities said the operation demonstrates Genoa’s capability to support complex low-emission technologies.
Axpo’s Head of Small-Scale LNG Daniele Corti said: “This operation demonstrates our determination to pioneer sustainable LNG solutions across the Mediterranean market.”
The development follows Axpo’s earlier bio-LNG bunkering work in the Iberian Peninsula and its operations in Málaga, Algeciras and Sines.
