Transport MEPs also voted through a draft negotiating mandate on sustainable maritime fuels rules (FuelEU Maritime) by 36 votes to 6 and 2 abstentions, the same evening. It aims to cut maritime sector greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships by 2% as of 2025, 20% as of 2035 and 80% as of 2050 (Commission proposed a 13% and 75% reduction).
This would apply for ships above a gross tonnage of 5000, in principle responsible for 90% of CO2 emissions, to all energy used on board in or between EU ports, and to 50% of energy used on voyages where the departure or arrival port is outside of the EU.
MEPs also set a target of 2% of renewable fuels usage and mandated containerships and passenger ships to use on-shore power supply while at berth at main EU ports as of 2030. This would significantly reduce air pollution in ports.
In order to secure compliance, the committee favours the introduction of penalties. Revenues generated from these should go to the Ocean Fund and contribute to decarbonising the maritime sector, energy efficiency and zero-emission propulsion technologies.
EP rapporteur on sustainable maritime fuels Jörgen Warborn (EPP, SE) stressed: “With today’s vote, we lay out by far the most ambitious pathway to maritime decarbonisation in the world. This agreement strikes the balance between ensuring that our climate targets are met efficiently, while safeguarding the maritime sector’s competitiveness and shielding industries and families from rising prices.”
Once Parliament as a whole has approved this draft negotiating position at the October II plenary session, MEPs will be ready to start talks with EU governments on the final shape of the legislation.
