A group of 20 European clean technology and e-fuel producers has urged the European Commission to strengthen policy support for green shipping fuels. The coalition warns that Europe risks losing its early industrial lead in e-fuels without faster and more targeted action.
Investment Needs Highlight Scale of Challenge
Based on the Sustainable Transport Investment Plan, the transition of maritime transport toward decarbonisation will require between €35 billion and €47 billion in annual investment by 2035. While private capital is expected to cover much of this funding, industry stakeholders stress that public backing remains essential.
In particular, public support can help reduce risks for first-of-a-kind projects. It can also guide fuel choices toward solutions that align with Europe’s climate goals and industrial strategy.
Existing Support Tools Seen as Insufficient
The Sustainable Transport Investment Plan is viewed as a positive step. However, producers argue that current tools, including hydrogen bank auctions and the Innovation Fund, do not yet provide enough momentum.
Although proposals such as market intermediaries and double-sided auctions are welcomed, the coalition says additional EU measures are needed. These actions would help scale domestic e-fuel production, improve energy security, and protect Europe’s clean-technology leadership.
Global Competition Adds Pressure
The European maritime sector now faces rising competition. Producers point to accelerated investments in e-fuel production across China, the Middle East, and the United States.
As these markets expand, European e-ammonia and e-methanol projects risk losing their early advantage. Without stronger support, international competitors could overtake Europe in both scale and cost efficiency.
Key Policy Measures Proposed
The coalition has outlined several measures aimed at strengthening Europe’s position in green maritime fuels:
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Restrict EU double-sided auctions for maritime fuels to e-fuels, as biofuels are already mature or limited by feedstock availability.
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Introduce an EU-level supply mandate for marine e-fuels at European ports, aligned with the Renewable Energy Directive.
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Allocate 25% of shipping ETS revenues to green e-fuel production, potentially delivering €24 billion between 2030 and 2039.
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Strengthen incentives under the FuelEU Maritime Regulation through higher multipliers and a reinforced RFNBO subquota.
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Preserve regulatory stability by keeping the greenhouse gas methodology for renewable fuels of non-biological origin unchanged.
Together, these measures aim to create clear market signals, attract investment, and avoid fragmented certification systems across EU member states.
Call for Faster Policy Action
While the Sustainable Transport Investment Plan sets an important foundation, clean-technology producers stress that speed now matters. Turning recommendations into binding policies will be key to ensuring Europe shapes the future of clean maritime fuels and maintains its industrial competitiveness.
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Source: Safety4Sea
