The European Commission has published its proposal to revise the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), alongside an electrification action plan. For the maritime sector, the proposal matters because it strengthens the shipping dimension of the ETS and channels more revenue toward decarbonisation.
The proposal introduces a Sustainable Maritime Alternative Propulsion mechanism, SMAP, designed as a technology-neutral support instrument. It would allocate 110 million allowances for 2028-2040, supporting options such as advanced biofuels, e-fuels, electrification and wind propulsion.
A key change for shipyards, shipowners and suppliers is the planned extension of the scope to smaller ships below 5,000 GT but above 400 GT. The allowances may also support sustainable marine fuels or zero-emission propulsion technologies for these vessels, potentially opening new retrofit and equipment opportunities.
The package also aims to simplify reporting for shipping companies through a combined report for FuelEU and ETS/MRV requirements, while addressing avoidance risks linked to neighbouring transhipment ports outside the EU. Level playing-field provisions for EU-based offshore operators are also included.
SEA Europe says the Commission text broadly reflects its main requests, especially a wide focus on clean technologies and the inclusion of smaller vessels in the EU ETS scope. The proposal will now move to the Council and the European Parliament for debate and amendments.
Versiunea în limba română: Revizuirea EU ETS aduce noi măsuri pentru decarbonizarea transportului maritim.
Source: information sent by Gelu Stan, 17 July 2026. Image: European Commission headquarters, Berlaymont Building, Ank Kumar / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.