The European Union (EU) has unveiled its Clean Industrial Deal, aiming to bolster industrial competitiveness while advancing decarbonisation efforts. This initiative is particularly significant for the maritime sector, as the World Shipping Council (WSC) warns that without substantial investment and political commitment, the EU risks falling behind in the global shipping industry’s green transition.
Currently, a record number of green-fuel-capable ships are entering service. However, the availability of these eco-friendly fuels remains limited, and their costs can be up to four times higher than traditional fossil fuels. The WSC views the Clean Industrial Deal as a pivotal opportunity for Europe to bridge this fuel price gap and develop the necessary infrastructure to support the transition to greener shipping.
Joe Kramek, WSC President and CEO, expressed optimism about the EU’s direction: “We’re really pleased to see investments in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and clean transport infrastructure prioritised today.” He emphasised that fully realising the Clean Industrial Deal could strengthen Europe’s position as a global shipping hub. Given that the EU is one of the world’s largest exporters, its economic power and global influence are closely tied to shipping. Without the necessary investment and commitment, the EU risks being left behind in this critical sector.
Key components of the deal include accelerating renewable energy deployment, promoting renewable and low-carbon hydrogen, and increasing EU-level funding for the clean transition. These measures are essential for producing the green marine fuels required to decarbonise shipping. The WSC cautions that current investments in areas like green hydrogen have been insufficient. Future funding commitments must significantly surpass past efforts to meet the industry’s evolving needs.
The scale of the challenge is underscored by the fact that liner shipping makes over 65,000 port calls to more than 130 EU ports annually. This highlights the pressing need for port infrastructure capable of supporting the supply of green fuels. In anticipation of further details in the upcoming Sustainable Transport Investment Plan and EU Ports Strategy, the WSC advocates for increased investment in green fuel production and port infrastructure.
The industry’s commitment to a clean transition is evident, with 77% of new containerships and vehicle carriers scheduled for delivery by 2030 designed to operate on green fuels—amounting to 689 ships and counting. By that time, over 22% of fleet capacity (measured in twenty-foot equivalent units, or TEU) will be dual-fuel, capable of running on green fuels. For these vessels to transition effectively, it’s crucial that Europe ensures the availability of green fuels at competitive prices.
Kramek emphasised the urgency of the situation: “We need urgent action to prepare Europe for this clean transition. With green-fuel capable ships hitting the water now, the best time to act was yesterday—but the next best time to act is today.”
In summary, the Clean Industrial Deal presents a significant opportunity for the EU to lead in the decarbonisation of the global shipping industry. However, realising this potential requires immediate and substantial investment in renewable energy, green fuel production, and port infrastructure to maintain and enhance Europe’s competitiveness in the maritime sector.
Source:WSC
