MEPs adopt new rules for greener maritime fuels

MEPs have approved new rules on cleaner maritime fuels.
The new rules are part of the “Fit for 55 in 2030 package”, the EU’s plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels with the aim of decarbonising transport.
During the negotiations with Council, they ensured that ships will have to gradually reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by cutting the amount of GHG in the energy they use (below 2020 level) by 2% as of 2025 to 80% as of 2050.
This would apply to ships above a gross 5,000 tonnage, which are in principle responsible for 90% of CO2 emissions, and to all energy used on board in or between EU ports, as well as to 50% of energy used on voyages where the departure or arrival port is outside of the EU or in EU outermost regions.
In order to significantly reduce air pollution in ports, containerships and passenger ships will be obliged to use on-shore power supply for all electricity needs while moored at the quayside in major EU ports as of 2030.
The new rules also set a 2% renewable fuels usage target as of 2034 if the Commission reports that in 2031 renewable fuels of non-biological origin (RFNBO) amount to less than 1% of fuel mix.
Petar Vitanov (S&D, BG) said: “Using more sustainable, renewable and efficient energy solutions in the transport sector will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, improve citizens’ quality of life and create new high-quality jobs.
“The new rules will also help to deploy more charging infrastructure and make it as easy to use as traditional petrol stations.ʺ
The new rules on alternative fuels infrastructure were adopted by 514 votes in favour , 52 votes against and 74 abstentions, while the new rules on sustainable maritime fuels were backed by 555 votes to 48 and 25 abstentions. Once Council has approved both laws, the alternative fuels infrastructure rules will apply from six months after their entry into force, and the sustainable maritime fuels rules will apply as of 1 January 2025.