December 1, 2025. Axpo and Italian ferry operator GNV (MSC Group), supported by the Maritime Authority of Genoa, have successfully completed Italy’s first ship-to-ship Bio-LNG bunkering operation at the Port of Genoa. This significant step in the Italian ferry industry’s energy transition strengthens both companies’ leadership in sustainable marine fuels.
The ship-to-ship bunkering operation involved the refueling of new state-of-the-art ferry GNV Virgo, the first Italian long-distance ro-pax vessel powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) to be used on a regular route.
Produced from organic waste materials, Bio-LNG is a renewable version of liquefied natural gas. With a much lower overall environmental impact than traditional fuels, it has an important part to play in the energy transition. When powered by Bio-LNG – determined by the green fuel’s availability – the dual-fuel GNV Virgo will operate in line with European decarbonization targets, anticipating the EU’s long-term aim to be carbon-neutral by 2050.
GNV Chief Executive Officer Matteo Catani said: “This moment represents a true turning point for GNV in reducing the environmental impact of our fleet. The introduction of LNG into our daily operations not only significantly lowers emissions, but also allows us to gain hands-on experience with the technologies that will shape the future of European maritime transport, confirming our commitment to increasingly sustainable and competitive shipping.”
