Germany's Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV) has announced a new initiative to promote green inland shipping through the Direktive über Fördergelder für grüne Fährstraßen. The ministry is providing up to €70 million in funding for projects that will support the transition to zero- and low-emission vessels. According to the statement published on Monday, 10 August, this funding will be used to upgrade existing ships with cleaner propulsion systems and build necessary infrastructure such as charging and refuelling facilities.
German Transport Minister Steffen Bilger highlighted the importance of inland waterways in a climate-friendly transport mix: "Inland navigation is an efficient and climate-friendly mode of transport with great future potential. With our new funding program, we are creating the conditions for emission-free propulsion systems and the necessary charging and refueling infrastructure to be implemented more quickly."
The programme will also invest in renewable energy production facilities, including hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol bunkering infrastructure at ports and other strategic locations. Applications from companies, municipalities, and other economically active entities based in Germany are now open through a government funding portal starting 17 August 2026.
The ship energy publication notes that the BMV's guidelines aim to support both new and existing vessels by installing cleaner propulsion systems. Ship & Bunker further details that this includes infrastructure for alternative fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol. Hellenic Shipping News adds that renewable electricity and storage solutions will also be funded under this initiative.
Eligible Projects
The funding is intended to support the conversion of existing cargo vessels to emission-free or low-emission propulsion systems. This includes the installation of cleaner engines, batteries, and other technologies. Additionally, infrastructure projects such as charging facilities and bunkering stations will be prioritized, supporting the logistics required for green shipping.
German companies and municipalities interested in applying can find more information on the government's funding portal. The deadline for applications has not yet been announced but is expected to follow soon.