The OCP Group partners with energy developer Quadrise to test a low-emission fuel. This full-scale trial, conducted on a vessel chartered by the giant MSC, has the potential to revolutionize the logistics of the world’s leading phosphate producer while accelerating its ecological transition.
This marks a crucial step towards the decarbonization of maritime transport in Morocco. The OCP Group, in collaboration with British firm Quadrise, is set to launch industrial trials to test innovative fuel. This experimental project also involves the MSC shipping company, whose vessel will serve as a floating laboratory to assess the performance of this new blend under real-world conditions.
A breakthrough technology without changing engines
The fuel developed by Quadrise is based on an emulsification technology that combines residual hydrocarbons and water. The major advantage of this process lies in its ease of adoption: it only requires minor adjustments to existing injection systems. Unlike other costly energy alternatives, this fuel allows current vessels to reduce their particulate and sulfur oxide emissions without necessitating a heavy redesign of their mechanical installations.
The tests scheduled with OCP will focus on three critical pillars: the stability of the blend during long journeys, overall energy efficiency, and, importantly, the effective measurement of carbon footprint reduction. For the OCP Group, whose activities heavily rely on international maritime freight, the success of these trials would provide a concrete solution to green its logistics chain.
A strong signal sent to the markets
The announcement of this operational phase immediately garnered attention in the City of London. Quadrise’s share price soared by over 15% on the stock market, reaching 1.73 pence. Despite a loss of two million pounds recorded in the first half of the year, the company boasts a solid cash position of four million pounds by the end of 2025, enough to fund its ambitions in Morocco.
Beyond the technical aspects, discussions are ongoing with other global economic centers, but the Casablanca-London axis is paving the way. By opening its vessels to these experiments, the OCP Group reaffirms its ambition to become a major player in the circular economy, transforming its logistical needs into opportunities for technological innovation.