Ocean Group adopts sustainable fuel for port towing operations in British Columbia

Ocean Group, is taking another step towards greener shipping

Indeed, we are proud to announce the adoption of HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil), a new-generation renewable diesel fuel, for all Groupe Ocean port towing operations.

HVO is made from renewable sources, including vegetable oils, residues of plant or animal origin, and used oils such as those derived from frying. This fuel has the major advantage of reducing lifecycle CO2 emissions by around 80% compared with traditional fossil fuels, offering a significant solution for reducing the shipping industry’s carbon footprint.

Since 2023, Group Ocean has been testing the efficiency of HVO at its Delta Port and Fraser River sites. After months of data analysis and obtaining the necessary authorizations from Transport Canada, we are ready to finalize the transition to this environmentally-friendly fuel by the end of 2024. Eventually, all Ocean Group tugs in British-Columbia will be powered by this sustainable energy source, marking a decisive turning point in our company’s environmental strategy.

This change is not just a technical initiative

It is part of a wider strategy that underlines our commitment to reducing the ecological footprint of our marine activities. The transition to HVO also reinforces the collaborative agreement signed in 2023 between Ocean Group and Musqueam Capital Corp., a key partner on the Fraser River and the Musqueam territory.

This agreement aims to promote more sustainable and environmentally friendly navigation, while strengthening the economic and cultural ties between our two parties. This includes the ability to develop initiatives that lead to career opportunities for members of the Musqueam community both on the water and ashore. In fact, the first initiative of this type involved training members of the community in maritime-related jobs. Since then, eight members have taken part in this interesting program and three graduates are now employed full time onboard Ocean’s Fraser River and Vancouver harbour tugs within Musqueam territory.  This is a significant commitment for the Musqueam community, and we’re delighted with the results so far, and look forward to a promising future.

With this move, Ocean Group is reaffirming its role as a leader in the marine sector, while making a firm commitment to a greener future.

To find out more about the agreement with the Musqueam Nation, read this article.