The European Commission launched a new pilot project to foster the energy transition in the EU fisheries sector
In a bid to propel the energy transition within the fisheries sector, the European Commission has initiated a new call for proposals for a demonstrator pilot project.
With a budget of EUR 2.2 million, the call aims to fund the retrofitting of a fishing vessel with alternative propulsion technologies, fostering energy efficiency, emissions reduction, and mitigating underwater noise. The application window for this funding opportunity is open from February 20 until June 11, 2024.
The European fishing fleet currently contributes to an annual emission of 4.3 million tons of CO2 equivalent, primarily relying on fossil fuels for its operations. This dependency not only compromises the environmental sustainability of the sector but also renders it susceptible to fluctuations in energy prices, impacting overall profitability.
The European Commission’s Communication on the Energy Transition of the EU Fisheries and Aquaculture sector, published in February 2023, set a framework for diversification from fossil fuels and enhancing energy performance in the industry. Among the outlined actions was the imperative to explore and demonstrate innovations in fishing vessels, including alternative propulsion technologies.
This call for proposals seeks to address this by financing a pilot project dedicated to retrofitting a marine fishing vessel. The project aims to showcase the feasibility of selected technologies and serve as an exhibition to promote the results to various stakeholders, including fishers, investors, coastal communities, and the younger generation.
To provide detailed information about the call, the Innovation and Networks Executive Agency (CINEA) is organising a virtual Info Day on March 18, from 14:00 to 16:00 CET. During the event, speakers from CINEA and DG MARE will present the call, elaborate on the application process, and provide insights on crafting successful proposals.
Applicants have until June 11, 2024, at 17:00 CET to submit their proposals electronically through the Funding & Tenders Portal Electronic Submission System. Pilot projects of this nature introduce innovative initiatives that may evolve into permanent EU funding programs, designed to test the feasibility and usefulness of new actions.
How to apply?
Applicants have to submit their proposal electronically via the Funding & Tenders Portal Electronic Submission System