New French funding programme targets ship retrofits, low-emission newbuilds and port infrastructure across France.

France government’s Agency for the Environment and Energy Management (ADEME) has launched a new call for projects to support investments aimed at reducing the shipping sector’s GHG emissions.

The funding programme targets shipowners, vessel owners, charterers, shipyards, equipment manufacturers, ports, terminal operators and low- and zero-emission fuel suppliers.

For vessels, funding will be available to retrofit existing ships or acquiring alternative fuel-capable newbuilds. Eligible technologies include wind-assisted propulsion systems, onboard energy-efficiency technologies and engines running on conventional fuel alternatives.

Funding will also be available for port infrastructure projects, such as shore power installations and low- and zero-emission fuel storage and bunkering facilities.

The programme also covers broader industrial investments, including new factories, production lines, propulsion equipment and energy systems to support the production and use of low- and zero-emission fuels.

Eligible projects must have a minimum Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 7. According to the EU, TRL 7 means a technology has progressed beyond laboratory testing and has been demonstrated in an operational environment using a prototype.

“The selected projects will be eligible for financial support covering a portion of the additional costs associated with these innovative investments,” Nantes Saint-Nazaire Development agency said.

Source: ENGINE by Konica Bhatt