GTT, Bloom and Ponant to Develop New Energy System for Future Cruise Vessel

French engineering specialist GTT has teamed up with Bloom Energy and Ponant Explorations Group to develop an integrated energy system combining solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) powered by LNG with marine carbon capture, aiming to significantly cut onboard emissions for future cruise operations.

The system is slated to be installed on Ponant’s Swap2Zero cruise vessel by 2030. The vessel will be propelled by wind-assisted technology and fuel cells, and the new system is designed to cover the ship’s hotel load - including lighting, hot water, and onboard services - while capturing CO2 from exhaust gases.

GTT will design and develop the carbon capture system to work with Bloom Energy’s SOFC technology. The partners said the dual approach will reduce emissions and increase efficiency by reusing low-temperature energy from the ship’s cryogenic installations through optimized thermal management.

The initiative supports the International Maritime Organization’s decarbonization goals and aims to showcase how advanced energy technologies can accelerate the maritime sector’s transition to low-emission operations.

“Combining GTT’s technology and expertise with our partners’ is how we will design the ships of the future and accelerate the decarbonization of maritime transport. This project reflects our shared ambition to deliver high-performance and innovative solutions that