Funding for Emission-Free and Low-Emission Propulsion Systems and Sustainable Modernization of Inland Waterway Vessels

The program targets companies with a registered office or branch in Germany that commercially use inland waterway vessels and wish to modernize them. The goal is to promote climate-neutral inland navigation through investments in emission-free and low-emission propulsion systems, as well as energy efficiency.

The program promotes investments in emission-free and low-emission propulsion systems for new or existing inland waterway vessels, as well as measures to increase energy efficiency. This includes technologies such as purely electric propulsion systems or fuel cell systems.

Support is provided in the form of non-repayable grants, the amount of which depends on the type of measure and the application procedure. The funding rates also vary according to company size, with up to 100% of the eligible expenses being covered.

Specific requirements apply to applicants regarding company headquarters, vessel ownership, and commercial use. Projects must not have started before the application. Special conditions concern compliance with emission limits and the earmarking of the funded vessel for a period of at least five years.

Applications must be submitted in writing or electronically to the Directorate-General for Waterways and Shipping (GDWS) before the start of the investment measure. There is both a call for applications procedure, where applications compete, and an approval procedure, which follows the order of application receipt.

The funding program is based on a directive from the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport dated November 2, 2023, and is governed by the Federal Budget Code and the EU General Block Exemption Regulation, which ensures compatibility with the internal market.