Norwegian government agency Enova has unveiled its final criteria for supporting hydrogen- and ammonia-fueled vessels. The initiative aims to lay the foundation for these alternative fuels, positioning them as viable options for the maritime industry beyond 2030.
Enova’s primary goal is to incentivize the adoption of hydrogen and ammonia as maritime fuels by providing financial support to companies. In a press release, the agency expressed its commitment to covering up to 80 percent of the extra investment costs associated with transitioning to hydrogen and ammonia. This financial support is a strategic move to bridge the economic gap, making these sustainable alternatives more attractive to the maritime sector.
Beyond vessel support, Enova’s initiative extends to the creation of a comprehensive supply chain for hydrogen and ammonia. This includes the development of storage and bunkering facilities along the Norwegian coast. Enova is set to contribute up to 80 percent of the capital costs associated with establishing this crucial infrastructure. The overarching goal is to create a seamless supply chain that facilitates the widespread use of both hydrogen and ammonia in maritime operations.
Enova acknowledges a significant hurdle in the adoption of hydrogen and ammonia—cost. These alternative fuels presently come at a higher price compared to traditional fossil fuels. The financial support offered by Enova is a strategic measure to overcome this barrier, encouraging companies to embrace cleaner and more sustainable fuel options.
Since the spring of 2022, Enova has been a key player in the push for cleaner energy solutions. The agency proudly reports providing NOK 1.12 billion in support for the production of hydrogen from renewable sources and backing more than 25 hydrogen- and ammonia-fueled vessels. This track record underscores Enova’s commitment to driving tangible change in the maritime sector.
