EC fund boost for innovation in maritime sector

The ‘Innovation Fund’ aims to support net-zero technologies and promote decarbonisation projects across different sectors, one of which is the maritime industry.

SEA Europe, an organisation that represents European shipyards and maritime equipment manufacturers, said it welcomed the opportunity – ‘especially the condition that shipbuilding and refurbishment projects must take place within Europe’, it said.

“This aligns with the sector’s long-standing advocacy for reinforcing European maritime industries,” a statement said.

SEA Europe’s vice chairmen include representatives from companies including VARD, Chantier Naval de Marseille, Damen, Kongsberg Maritime and Navantia.

In September, it raised concerns about the lack of support from the EC for the maritime industry, including the issue of unfair competition from non-European shipyards.

In response to an EC consultation released on draft rules for transport, SEA Europe said the proposed rules did not require vessels to be built or retrofitted in European shipyards, ‘potentially funnelling funds from EU countries to non-European competitors that often benefit from domestic subsidies, further disadvantaging European shipbuilders’.

Focusing on inland waterways, it called for clearer eligibility criteria to ensure aid could be accessed by European stakeholders.

“The Innovation Fund is pivotal in accelerating maritime decarbonisation efforts,” said secretary-general Christophe Tytgat. “It supports the development and scaling of cutting-edge technologies led by European shipyards and maritime equipment manufacturers. This call will bolster the competitiveness, sustainability and resilience of Europe’s maritime manufacturing sector, safeguard its technological leadership and revitalise its industrial capabilities.”