Enova has unveiled an $84 million support package for the maritime industry, targeting the development of zero-emission vessels.
The funding will support projects including seven ammonia carriers, two hydrogen carriers, five electric ships, and a maritime charging facility, highlighting Norway’s significant investment in cutting maritime emissions. The new Battery in Zero-Emission Ships program has three clear objectives to support the maritime sector in its critical work toward 2050:
- Making electrification with battery solutions competitive as a zero-emission option for various types of vessels.
- Accelerating electrification and the transition to zero-emission solutions.
- Ensuring further development of the value chain for maritime battery suppliers.
Enova has tailored the new support program to address the current situation where investments are delayed because batteries are still too expensive, and there is significant uncertainty about the availability of infrastructure.
Battery electrification is still not competitive in most cases as a zero-emission technology for the maritime industry. That is why Enova invited the market earlier this spring to provide input on a new, targeted program that can reduce risks and encourage more investments. Now we are raising the ambitions,
… said Andreas Forsnes Jahn, advisor for maritime transport at Enova.
Summary of the New Battery in Zero-Emission Ships Program
- Starting April 16, support can be applied for to cover part of the additional costs of building a ship primarily powered by batteries charged from land.
- Support can also be sought for necessary charging infrastructure. Maximum support rates are up to 80% of additional costs for ships (capped at NOK 100 million) and up to 60% of charging facility costs.
- Support will be awarded competitively, with applications ranked based on the requested support per battery size and energy efficiency.
- The first application deadline is May 28.
The Coastal Shipping Association sees great value in initiatives like this. These are crucial steps toward a more sustainable future for shipping, aligning directly with our members’ ambitions for a more environmentally friendly and efficient fleet,
…. commented Tor Arne Borge, CEO of the Coastal Shipping Association.
To remind, in November, Enova also granted 65 million euros to five hydrogen projects for maritime fuel in Norway.
