CORSICA linea switches to BioLNG on the Marseille–Bastia route

From July 2026, CORSICA linea is launching a pilot phase incorporating biomethane into the energy supply of A Galeotta, its first LNG-powered vessel, on the Bastia–Marseille route. This initiative marks a new step towards the creation of a low-carbon maritime corridor between Corsica and mainland France.

During the 2026 summer season, this pilot phase will make it possible to test, under real operating conditions, the integration of certified biomethane into the energy supply of a public service vessel. According to CORSICA linea, the vessel’s carbon footprint on services to Corsica will consequently be reduced by 80%.

The system is based on a certified volume-equivalence mechanism, guaranteeing that a quantity of renewable biomethane produced from organic waste is produced and injected into the European gas network in connection with the vessel’s LNG consumption. This mechanism, recognised and regulated at European level, makes it possible to link vessel operations with the effective development of renewable energy while relying on existing infrastructure.

Beyond this pilot phase, CORSICA linea is calling for the development of biomethane production capacity close to its operations. In this respect, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region represents a strategic area, particularly around the Fos-sur-Mer industrial and port zone, which has suitable energy and logistics infrastructure. In the longer term, the emergence of regional production should make it possible to bring energy production and use closer together and consolidate an energy-transition ecosystem serving the maritime sector.

This initiative forms part of the environmental transition plan implemented by CORSICA linea since 2018. The company is carrying out more than 40 projects to achieve a 40% reduction in its CO₂ emissions by 2030 and reports that it has already reduced its CO₂ emissions per nautical mile by 20% compared with 2022. Certified by Green Marine Europe since 2020, it has invested more than €350 million in its fleet.

Picture : Louis Moutard