FuelEU Maritime Regulation In Force For 2025

25th February 2025

The FuelEU Maritime Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2023/1805), introduced as part of the European Commission’s Fit for 55 legislative package, represents a transformative step toward decarbonising the maritime sector. Fully effective from January 1, 2025, the regulation incentivises the adoption of renewable, low-carbon fuels and clean energy technologies, setting ambitious targets for the shipping industry's greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions.

Key Highlights of the FuelEU Maritime Regulation:

1. Greenhouse Gas Intensity Reduction Targets
1. Applicable to ships over 5,000 gross tons calling at EU ports, regardless of their flag.
2. Requires a 2% reduction in GHG intensity of marine fuels starting in 2025, scaling up to an 80% reduction by 2050.
3. Covers CO₂, methane, and nitrous oxide emissions over the full lifecycle of fuels, using a Well-to-Wake (WtW) analysis.


2. Shore Power for Zero-Emission Operations
1. From January 1, 2030, passenger and container ships at berth in ports specified under the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) must use on-shore power supply (OPS) or equivalent zero-emission technologies.
2. By 2035, this requirement extends to all EU ports with OPS capabilities, although Member States may implement the rule earlier.


3. Technology-Neutral and Flexible Compliance
1. Adopts a goal-based approach, allowing operators to choose fuels and technologies that best suit their needs, including biofuels, LNG, methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen.
2. Includes mechanisms to support existing fleets in achieving compliance and rewards early adopters of sustainable solutions.

Broader Context and Industry Impact:
With shipping contributing roughly 3% of global emissions, this regulation is integral to achieving the EU’s Fit for 55 initiative, targeting a 55% emissions reduction by 2030. The phased approach is designed to encourage innovation and align with the sector’s operational realities, while ensuring that GHG reductions are met progressively.

Challenges Ahead:
While the regulation provides flexibility, significant hurdles remain:

• High Costs: Transitioning to low- and zero-emission fuels requires substantial investment in technology and infrastructure.
• Fuel Availability: Developing and scaling up sustainable fuel production to meet demand is a critical concern.

Despite these challenges, the FuelEU Maritime Regulation is a bold step forward, positioning the EU as a leader in maritime decarbonisation and fostering global advancements in sustainable shipping practices.

#Protea #Emissions #Monitoring #CEMS #FTIR #Gas #Analysers #Shipping #Marine #Carbon #Capture

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