Europe targets 55% GHG emissions reduction by 2030 with FuelEU maritime regulation

Europe has committed to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 55% by 2030. To achieve this ambitious goal, the European Commission has introduced the FuelEU Maritime Regulation, aimed at promoting renewable, low-carbon fuels and clean energy technologies for commercial vessels. Effective from January 1, 2025, this regulation sets maximum limits for the yearly average GHG intensity of energy used by all vessels over 5,000GT calling at European ports, regardless of their flag.

FuelEU will also impose additional zero-emission requirements for ships at berth, mandating the use of on-shore power supply or alternative zero-emission technologies, such as hybrid and electric propulsion systems, when vessels are in port. Plans for shore-based power to enable ships to use sustainable energy while moored, rather than relying on their onboard generators, are already in development at several European ports, including Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges.

As part of the European Union’s (EU) broader efforts to reduce GHG emissions, the FuelEU Maritime Regulation impacts the shipping industry operating in EU territorial waters and ports, as well as ships arriving at EU ports from non-EU countries. Vessels operating within the EU will be required to report fuel consumption, emissions, and other relevant information to the authorities. This includes reporting the amount of fuel consumed, distance travelled, time spent at sea, and the amounts of CO2, SO2, and NOx emitted during each voyage. Additionally, information on the type of fuel used, the energy efficiency of the vessel, and measures taken to improve energy efficiency must be reported. Non-compliance with these mandatory reporting requirements can result in financial penalties.

Owners, managers, and charterers must be aware of the compliance requirements and documentation necessary to operate their vessels at European ports without interruption.

The European Commission and EU member states have set a new benchmark to match 40% of the deployment needs for clean fuels for shipping with production capacity. To meet the anticipated demand of 17 million tonnes of oil equivalent annually by 2030, the maritime sector will need access to about 30-40% of the projected global carbon-neutral fuel supply.

GAC Bunker Fuels is the first bunker company to align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). As a global ship agent at ports throughout Europe and beyond, the GAC Group leverages its resources and expertise, including GAC Bunker Fuels, to guide customers through environmental regulations.

“As a global ship agent at ports in Europe and beyond, GAC works hard to stay at the top of the energy efficiency game, both in our activities and by acting as a bridge to help the industry as a whole hit decarbonisation targets,” says Thomas Okbo, GAC’s Group Vice President – Europe & Africa. “Our customers need to be aware of the steps they have to take to comply with measures like the FuelEU Maritime Regulation. And we can support them with cost-efficient operations on their journey to decarbonisation.”

FuelEU represents a major step towards the sustainability and resilience of European shipping. Its introduction underscores the need for awareness of the evolving regulatory landscape, and the importance of embracing innovation, driving efficiency, and championing decarbonisation. GAC plays a crucial role in supporting customers as they seek to comply with regulations and make their operations more environmentally friendly.