Deadline Date: April 14, 2026
The European Commission has launched a major initiative under the co-programmed European Partnership on ‘Zero Emission Waterborne Transport’ (ZEWT) to drive innovation and sustainability in long-distance shipping.
The initiative focuses on developing novel technologies and concepts that can reduce energy consumption in shipping by at least 25% compared to 2008 levels, supporting the EU’s broader goals for green and digital transitions, as well as a more resilient and competitive transport sector.
Overall, this EU-funded program represents a significant step toward greener, more efficient, and technologically advanced waterborne transport, with a total budget of €15 million and individual projects expected to receive around €5 million in funding. It is designed to accelerate the adoption of zero-emission solutions, enhance competitiveness of the European maritime industry, and contribute to the EU’s climate neutrality and sustainability objectives.
The project encourages the development of high-risk, high-reward solutions across both propulsion and non-propulsion energy consumption. Proposed technologies may include advanced propulsion systems, augmented hull performance, novel materials, and energy optimization solutions. Fuel-related proposals are limited to renewable, low, and zero-carbon fuels. The technologies are expected to be applicable across a variety of ship types, including container ships, bulk carriers, ro-pax vessels, and tankers, and should demonstrate scalability, replicability, and economic viability.
Key objectives include creating a methodology to assess energy savings in line with the International Maritime Organization’s GHG strategy and the FuelEU Maritime Regulation, modeling environmental and climate impacts, and addressing safety, operational, and skills requirements. Projects are also encouraged to incorporate digital twin and AI-based optimization features to enhance energy management, though such improvements are considered additional to the 25% energy savings target.
The initiative aims to produce measurable outcomes that strengthen the EU’s technological leadership and competitiveness in the maritime sector. Projects are expected to demonstrate real-world energy savings, economic feasibility, safety compliance, and environmental sustainability. They should also contribute to EU strategic autonomy, support human capital development, and foster collaboration with European shipyards, equipment manufacturers, SMEs, and start-ups.
Beyond shipping, the initiative forms part of a broader Horizon Europe destination focused on achieving sustainable, inclusive, and competitive transport modes. This encompasses reducing the climate and environmental footprint of transport while boosting competitiveness, covering areas such as zero-emission road transport, aviation, and waterborne transport. For maritime transport specifically, the initiative promotes higher autonomy for electric and hybrid vessels, renewable fuel adoption, cleaner port operations, and improved safety for seafarers and port workers.
For more information, visit European Commission.
