Shipping: a call for projects to decarbonise 3% of European emissions
Launched on 10 April 2026, this scheme targets a sector in which 85% of emissions come from freight transport.
On 10 April 2026, the ministers responsible for transport, maritime affairs and industry launched a call for projects to support the decarbonisation of shipping.
The sector currently accounts for close to 3% of greenhouse gas emissions in Europe, of which 85% come from freight transport. As other sectors accelerate their transition, this relative share tends to increase.
The call for projects gives effect to a commitment made by the inter-ministerial maritime committee of 22 May 2025. It forms part of the Government's long-term response to reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
The announcement notes that the fuel price crisis once again reveals the structural vulnerability of the economy to volatility in fossil fuel markets, and the need for energy sovereignty.
Maritime decarbonisation draws on several complementary levers: vessel energy efficiency, wind propulsion, electrification of port calls through shore-side power, and alternative fuels such as synthetic e-fuels.
Shore-side power illustrates the direct link with the onshore power grid: supplying a berthed vessel requires considerable connection capacity in port areas.