The Yacht Club de Monaco Embraces Green Hydrogen
In line with the sustainability goals of the United Nations and as part of the collective initiative “Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting,” the Yacht Club de Monaco has intensified its initiatives to protect the environment. H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco was recently invited on February 21st to discover the first autonomous pontoon powered by green hydrogen. This pontoon, which will be operational for the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge from July 1st to 6th, 2024, will have the capacity to fill 30 cylinders and provide hydrogen to eight teams.
With the aim of making Monaco a benchmark for responsible yachting, the Yacht Club de Monaco presented the system in the presence of various authorities, including Céline Caron-Dagioni, Government Advisor and Minister of Infrastructure, Environment, and Town Planning; Patrice Cellario, Government Advisor and Minister of the Interior; Armelle Roudaut-Lafon, Director of Maritime Affairs; Olivier Wenden, Vice President of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation; Marco Casiraghi, engineer and event promoter; and Francesco Prazzo, CEO of SBM Offshore.
According to the press release, this pontoon not only produces green hydrogen from renewable sources but also helps reduce the carbon footprint of the event. It has also been enhanced with the addition of floating solar panels, more batteries, and a remote control system. It is worth noting that the Yacht Club de Monaco has been implementing a green policy in the management of its premises for several years, such as recycling pool water through innovative technology, which has treated one million liters of water since June 2023.
These initiatives should be regarded as exemplary in promoting responsible yachting and environmental awareness.
A bit of club history
The Yacht Club de Monaco was founded in 1953 by Prince Ranieri III of Monaco. It is located in the La Condamine district of Monaco. However, the club’s history dates back to the 19th century. In 1862, the first regattas were held in Monaco, while in 1888, a group of twelve Monegasques decided to create the Société des Régates under the patronage of Prince Albert I of Monaco.
From the Société des Régates, the Yacht Club de Monaco was created.
