The EU’s new maritime decarbonization rules are officially in effect, marking the launch of a new era of regulatory enforcement aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions across Europe’s shipping sector.

More renewable and low-carbon fuels will help reduce carbon emissions and air pollution from the EU maritime sector, following the entry into force of the FuelEU Maritime Regulation as of  1 January 2025. The Regulation supports the transition towards a more sustainable transport sector by mandating the gradual uptake of renewable and low-carbon fuels, as well as the use of onshore power supply in ports starting from 2030.

The FuelEU Maritime Regulation sets a requirement to lower the greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity of the energy used on board by all ships with a gross tonnage of more than 5,000 tons that call at EU ports, regardless of the flag under which they are registered. The annual average reduction in GHG intensity is expected to increase gradually over time, starting from -2% in 2025 and reaching -80% in 2050, compared to the average in 2020.

The Regulation offers flexibility in choosing the right technologies, fuels, and business models for compliance. It includes a pooling mechanism to help fleets develop effective compliance strategies and to reward early adopters for investing in the energy transition.

Zero-emission requirements for passenger ships and container ships at berth are also included. The Regulation mandates the use of onshore power supply (OPS) or alternative zero-emission technologies as of January 1, 2030, in EU ports covered by the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR), and as of January 1, 2035, in all EU ports equipped with OPS facilities.

Next steps

From 1 January 2025, companies must monitor the energy used on board their ships during EU-related voyages and stays at EU ports. By 31 January 2026, companies will be required to submit the so-called FuelEU Report to their designated verifier, who is responsible for overseeing monitoring and reporting activities related to the Regulation. This will serve as the basis for calculating whether the ship met the GHG intensity reduction targets in 2025.

Background

To reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transport by 90% by 2050, the EU is working to decarbonize the maritime sector through measures such as the FuelEU Maritime Regulation, the extension of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) to shipping, and the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR). It is also collaborating with Member States to develop global measures at the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

To help scale up the production of renewable and low-carbon fuels in Europe, the Commission has allocated EUR 20 million of EU Allowances to the maritime sector under the EU Innovation Fund. Horizon Europe allocates EUR 530 million for research and innovation through the Zero Emission Waterborne Transport Partnership. Beyond financing, the Renewable and Low-Carbon Fuels Industrial Alliance (RLCF) supports the industry in advancing the production and supply of clean fuels in the aviation and maritime sectors.

More information

Decarbonising maritime transport – FuelEU Maritime

Reducing GHG emissions - Fuel EU Maritime Regulation - EMSA - European Maritime Safety Agency

New Maritime Rules Demand New Fuel Solutions — Are You Ready?

The EU’s FuelEU Maritime rules are now in effect, requiring shipping companies and port authorities to adapt. The pressure is on to deliver compliant, low-carbon fuels that meet both environmental and operational goals.

Klean Industries Is Already Delivering:

✅ Circular fuel technologies for marine use (plastics, tires → fuel)
✅ Fully traceable lifecycle carbon data via KleanLoop™
✅ Scalable infrastructure for sustainable fuel production & bunkering
✅ Strategic project development across the EU and globally

Contact Klean Industries to align your operations with the EU’s maritime climate goals and lead the charge into a cleaner shipping future » GO.