MSC and Eni Join Forces to Explore Potential of LNG and Biofuels

Swiss shipping giant MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Italy's energy major Eni to explore the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and biofuels. This collaboration aims to expand their business relationship, particularly in sustainability and the decarbonization of operations. The partners will focus on the adoption of LNG, along with other lower-carbon energy solutions like hydrotreated vegetable oils (HVO), bio-LNG, and renewable raw material-based lubricants. These alternative fuels are expected to be used on MSC’s fleets dedicated to logistics and cruise transport services.

Additionally, the two companies will assess renewable energy solutions to aid in the decarbonization of MSC's sites and facilities. The agreement also seeks to foster synergies across their operations, from logistics services to intermodal transport. This includes supporting the production of raw materials such as agri-feedstock for biorefining, as well as facilitating the storage and transport of HVO biofuels through integrated sea, rail, and road solutions.

Other areas under consideration include joint efforts for the decommissioning of offshore platforms both nationally and internationally. The MoU also paves the way for collaborative research and development initiatives and participation in Eni’s open-ES platform, which focuses on sustainability throughout the value chain. Claudio Descalzi, CEO of Eni, highlighted the importance of collective action in reducing emissions, noting that this agreement marks the beginning of a fruitful partnership with MSC to decarbonize transport and cruise services.

MSC Group President Diego Aponte emphasized the long-standing relationship between the companies and expressed that this MoU is a natural step forward in deepening their collaboration on sustainability. Aponte also noted that the partnership would enhance MSC’s broader approach to decarbonization and sustainability across its global operations.

In line with its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, MSC has been a staunch supporter of LNG as a marine fuel. The company’s fleet renewal strategy includes the acquisition of 100 dual-fuel vessels. MSC is also a member of the SEA LNG coalition, which explores the potential of bio-LNG, particularly renewable synthetic LNG. Recently, MSC signed a deal with Jiangsu Rongsheng Heavy Industries, a Chinese shipyard, to construct up to twelve new LNG dual-fuel containerships. These 12,000 TEU vessels are expected to cost around $170 million each, bringing the total value of the order to over $2 billion.

This partnership between MSC and Eni represents a significant step forward in their joint commitment to cleaner fuels and sustainability, furthering efforts to reduce emissions across the maritime and energy sectors while advancing decarbonization strategies.