Sunoil and BFT convert Birjo II to operate fully on 100% biodiesel
In collaboration with BFT, Sunoil successfully converted the barge Birjo II to run on 100% biodiesel (B100). The conversion of barge to run on B100 marks an important step toward reducing emissions within inland shipping and demonstrates how existing barges can already contribute to a more sustainable transport sector.
The Birjo II
The Birjo II, owned by DK Shipping, is a large barge used for transporting biofuels on Dutch inland waterways. It is primarily used for transporting biodiesel from Sunoil’s production facility in Kampen to its storage locations, while also carrying out direct deliveries to customers.
By transitioning from fossil fuel to B100, the barge can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to ~90% while continuing normal operations without replacing the engine itself. This makes Birjo II one of the first barges in the world capable of running fully on 100% biodiesel.
The project reflects the strong long-term collaboration between Sunoil and BFT and highlights a shared commitment to practical and scalable sustainability solutions within inland shipping. The barge will be able to be fueled directly from Sunoil’s Kampen location, creating a fully integrated renewable fuel chain from production to transport and end use.
“What makes this project especially valuable for Sunoil is that Birjo II now operates on our own biodiesel while transporting renewable fuels between our locations and customers,” says Jeroen Hovius, Chief Commercial Officer at Sunoil. “Together with BFT, we are continuing a strong long-term collaboration focused on practical solutions that help make inland shipping more sustainable. At the same time, this project creates a platform for the conversion and rollout of multiple barges operating on B100 across Europe.
The successful conversion of Birjo II demonstrates that existing inland shipping assets can already be adapted today to significantly reduce emissions. It highlights how practical renewable fuel solutions can support a more sustainable future for inland shipping without requiring full vessel replacement.
“For our customers, everything revolves around reliability, quality and continuity. In Sunoil we have found a partner that shares those same values. Together with the Birjo II, we are taking an important step toward a more sustainable and efficient collaboration that we are proud of,” says Johann de Koning, General Manager at BFT.
Representatives
Representatives from Sunoil, BFT and DK Shipping following the successful B100 conversion of the Birjo II. From left to right: Birgit de Koning, Johann de Koning, Jeroen Hovius, Jozef J. Knijff, Stephan van Wensen
Media Contact
For more information about operating barges on B100, barges upfitting solutions, or renewable fuel procurement, please contact Sunoil at sales@sunoil-biodiesel.com or visit their website.