Romano Energy chooses Secfuel: Self-service stations to boost availability of renewable fuels in the Mediterranean
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In a significant move to enhance the accessibility of renewable fuels at sea, Romano Energy has selected Secfuel’s unmanned marine self-service stations, with the first to be established in Monaco (pending local permitting).
This partnership aims to improve the availability of fuels like XTL (renewable diesel, or HVO100) and other renewable alternatives for pleasure boats and light commercial traffic.
By prioritizing safety, efficiency, and 24/7 accessibility, Romano Energy sees Secfuel’s solution as instrumental for increasing renewable fuel sales in the region. The station will cater to a diverse range of vessels, including police boats, tugboats, and large yachts in Monaco, contributing to a more sustainable maritime future.
Strategic Partnership for Increased Availability
The partnership represents a pivotal step in expanding access to renewable fuels not only in Monaco but throughout the Mediterranean. Plans include establishing a total of four unmanned self-service stations, with additional locations slated for Southern France and the Balearic Islands.
These stations will offer round-the-clock self-service with card payments, providing convenient access for private vessels, commercial boats, and public services, such as rescue operations. Gregory Romano, CEO of Romano Energy, highlights the growing demand for sustainable fuel options from both private and commercial operators.
Gregory Romano’s Leadership in Maritime Decarbonization
At the forefront of this initiative is Gregory Romano, whose commitment to decarbonizing marine traffic in Monaco drives his efforts to expand the use of renewable fuels. Romano’s vision encompasses a wide range of vessels, from more than 36 luxury yachts to the Port Pilot vessel navigating Monaco’s harbor, which are currently refueled by Romano Energy. The first step was made in early 2016 with development of a logistics system for synthetic sustainable fuels that has today grown to 15 depots covering France and Italy, with a total capacity of 20.000 tons of synthetic fuels.
Romano Energy also distributes synthetic fuels at three public fuel stations in Monaco and in France. Romano’s ambition is to position Monaco as a leader in sustainable marine operations, aligning perfectly with Secfuel’s mission to reduce the global maritime industry’s environmental impact. In Monaco, there are already 3.000 different engines using synthetic fuels across nine different sectors, several of them considered very hard to decarbonize.
Romano’s leadership goes beyond just fueling vessels; it aims to reshape the entire marine energy infrastructure of Monaco. By championing renewable fuels like XTL, Romano is setting a powerful example for other Mediterranean regions.
Safety and Innovation at the Core
Secfuel’s marine stations are designed with a focus on safety and operational efficiency. Each station can hold up to 60 cubic meters of fuel across six tanks, offering various fuel types, including XTL and other renewable alternatives. Key safety and operational features include:
- Double-walled tanks with leak detection systems
- Fully automated sprinkler systems with direct alarms to emergency services
- Drip-free nozzles to prevent spills during refueling
- Certified filling systems compliant with EN standards
- DNV-classed vessel construction and TÜV-certified tanks, ensuring future-proofed compatibility for both renewable and traditional fuels
Secfuel’s stations are capable of fueling up to four 40-foot boats simultaneously, or two vessels up to 100 feet. An integrated fender system guarantees safe and smooth docking for all types of craft.
Shared Vision for Decarbonization
Central to this partnership is a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Secfuel, a leader in unmanned fuel distribution technology, and Romano Energy S.A.M., dedicated to sustainable energy solutions. The MOU outlines plans for establishing up to four unmanned Secfuel stations across the Mediterranean, including Monaco, Southern France, and the Balearic Islands.
Secfuel’s cutting-edge self-service fueling technology, combined with Romano Energy’s expertise in renewable fuels, promises to accelerate the transition toward greener marine operations. XTL (HVO100) serves as a renewable drop-in fuel compatible with existing engines, offering a near-zero-carbon alternative to traditional marine diesel. Additionally, XTL is water-soluble and not classified as harmful to marine life, making it an ideal choice for marine fueling.
Driving the Renewable Fuel Revolution
The ICOMIA report, Propelling Our Future, has played a crucial role in this project, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable solutions in the maritime sector. This report has been instrumental in discussions with authorities in Monaco, where there is growing support for the adoption of renewable fuels at sea. Romano Energy hopes this partnership will expedite the approval process for establishing the first Secfuel station in Monaco. Romano’s ambition is to set a benchmark for other marinas and governments across the Mediterranean, demonstrating that sustainable marine fueling is both viable and necessary.
A Greener Future for Marine Fuels
With the first station planned in Monaco and more on the horizon, Romano Energy and Secfuel are poised to set a new global standard for the safe storage and handling of marine fuels. Their innovative marine stations will ensure that renewable fuels are available around the clock, benefiting yacht owners, commercial vessels, emergency services, and smaller pleasure boats alike.
Through this collaboration, Romano Energy and Secfuel are paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future for the Mediterranean's marine sector, where decarbonization is not only achievable but impactful.
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