The European Commission has launched a new call for proposals for a demonstrator pilot project to foster the energy transition in the fisheries sector. The call for proposals is funded under the EU Pilot Project Funds with a budget of EUR 2.2 million. It will be open from 20 February until 11 June 2024.
This call for proposals seeks to finance a pilot project on a demonstrator fishing vessel that will be retrofitted with alternative propulsion technologies and other solutions to improve energy performance, cut emissions and reduce underwater noise.
Boosting energy transition in the fisheries sector
The European fishing fleet is currently responsible for the annual emission of 4.3 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent. The sector is fuel intensive and relies heavily on fossil fuels for its operations. This dependency not only reduces the environmental sustainability of fisheries, but also makes it vulnerable to increases in energy prices and affects the profitability of the sector.
In February 2023, the European Commission published the Communication on the Energy Transition of the EU Fisheries and Aquaculture sector, setting a framework for diversification from fossil fuels and improving energy performance. Among the actions identified in the Communication is the need to further test and demonstrate innovations on fishing vessels, including alternative propulsion technologies and other solutions.
In response to this need, the new call for proposals aims to finance a pilot project that should retrofit a marine fishing vessel to demonstrate the feasibility of the technologies selected and use the vessel as a showcase to promote the results to stakeholders, including fishers, investors, coastal communities, and young people.
Info Day
CINEA is organising a virtual Info Day on this call on 18 March from 14:30 until 16:30 (CET). Speakers from CINEA and DG MARE will present the call and application process, including tips and tricks on how to write a successful proposal. Mark your calendar – registration will open soon!
Deadline to apply?
Applicants can submit their proposals until 11 June 2024 at 17h00 CET.
How to apply?
Applicants have to submit their proposal electronically via the Funding & Tenders Portal Electronic Submission System