The fishing boat of the future is coming – The European Commission has opened the door to innovators, fishermen and all stakeholders in the maritime sector with an exciting call for proposals for a pilot project to transform the fishing sector towards greater energy sustainability. With a budget of EUR 2.2 million, this call represents an unmissable opportunity for those who want to be at the forefront of the sector’s energy transition.
From 20 February to 11 June 2024, you can contribute to significant change by proposing projects that retrofit fishing vessels with alternative propulsion technologies, improving energy performance, reducing CO2 emissions and minimising underwater noise. This initiative not only aims to reduce the ecological footprint of fishing but also to increase the profitability of the sector, making it less dependent on fluctuations in energy prices.
Why apply?
The European fishing fleet is a major CO2 emitter, with 4.3 million tonnes per year. The need for change is clear, and the European Commission has already outlined a path towards energy transition in the sector with its February 2023 Communication. Now, with this new call for proposals, there is a concrete opportunity to put these strategies into practice, turning a fishing vessel into a model of innovation and sustainability.
How to participate
Participation is open to all interested parties who can submit their proposals through the electronic submission system of the Funding & Tenders portal by 11 June 2024. This is a unique opportunity to demonstrate the feasibility of alternative technologies in the fisheries sector and to promote these innovations to a wide range of stakeholders, including fishermen, investors and coastal communities.
In this regard, CINEA is organising a virtual information day on 18 March, from 14:00 to 16:00 CET. During this event, experts from CINEA and DG MARE will provide detailed information on the call and the application process, offering valuable advice for a successful proposal.
The fishing boat of the future is coming
