In a demonstration of Swiss innovation and tradition, SPIN member Synhelion has achieved a world-first by powering a historic steamboat with its solar fuel. The event took place on Lake Lucerne, where the over 110-year-old steamboat Gallia was symbolically fueled by Synhelion with the first barrel of solar diesel, produced from solar energy.
This milestone highlights the potential of solar fuels as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels in the transportation sector. Synhelion’s fuel is created by converting solar heat into synthesis gas, which is then refined into liquid fuels. As these fuels are fully compatible with existing infrastructure and engines, they offer a viable solution for defossilising hard-to-abate sectors such as maritime and aviation transport.
The steamboat project made SGV the first shipping company in the world to use Synhelion’s solar fuel. It was supported by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy and represents an important step towards the commercialization of solar fuels. According to Synhelion, this test run is a precursor to scaling the technology for broader applications, including in aviation—where the company aims to make a significant contribution to climate-neutral flying.
The symbolic first fueling took place as part of the launch of SGV’s new premium experience “Legends of Lake Lucerne.”
By successfully integrating cutting-edge solar technology into a century-old vessel, Synhelion demonstrates how the energy transition can preserve heritage while paving the way for a sustainable future.
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Synhelion News, May 2025 – Solar fuel powers steamboat in world first