CMA CGM joins forces with SUEZ on biomethane supplies for gas-powered ships

October 22, 2024, by Ajsa Habibic

French shipping giant CMA CGM has partnered with circular waste management solutions provider SUEZ to work on the production of biomethane and the low-carbon transition of maritime transport.

To this end, on October 18, the companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) outlining three main areas of collaboration. These include:

The supply of up to 100,000 tonnes of biomethane per year by 2030 from SUEZ to CMA CGM. The biomethane would be used by the shipping company for its gas-powered ships, contributing to the decarbonization of maritime transport.
The creation of a joint investment structure with an initial funding of €100 million for the first stage by 2030 to develop biomethane production facilities. These sites, initially located in Europe, would supply both CMA CGM and other players in the sector.
Joint research and development (R&D) initiatives aimed at designing innovative technologies for the production of biofuels, in particular via a hydrothermal gasification process.

Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of CMA CGM Group, said: “The strategic partnership between CMA CGM and SUEZ, one of France’s leading players in the energy transition, marks a major step forward. It will enable us to support the biomethane sector dedicated to the shipping industry, while accelerating the decarbonisation of CMA CGM Group and guaranteeing our carbon neutrality trajectory by 2050. This project also strengthens our energy independence, a key asset for the sovereignty of France and Europe.”

On the road to achieving the net-zero goal by 2050, CMA CGM said it invested $18 billion in orders for 131 vessels capable of using low-carbon energies (biomethane, biomethanol, and synthetic fuels), which will be operational by 2028. The company is also working alongside energy providers to develop production facilities and supply chains for these fuels.