Disruptive Technologies and Innovative Concepts for Energy Saving Onboard of long-distance ships (ZEWT Partnership)

Overview

Funding for the development and demonstration of disruptive technologies and innovative concepts that achieve at least 25% energy savings in long-distance shipping compared to 2008 levels. Targets researchers, industry players, and consortia in the waterborne transport sector, including SMEs and startups.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities established in eligible countries, including EU Member States, Horizon Europe Associated Countries, and select non-associated countries with specific funding provisions. Proposals must involve collaboration among industry, research organizations, and other stakeholders in the waterborne transport sector.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: 5,000,000 EUR per project.
• Funding is provided as a lump sum.
• Co-funding requirements are not explicitly stated but align with Horizon Europe’s standard funding rates (typically 70% for for-profit entities, up to 100% for non-profits and public bodies).

What Is Funded

• Development and demonstration of novel technologies and concepts for propulsion and non-propulsion energy consumption in long-distance shipping, targeting at least 25% energy savings.
• Solutions must exclude fuel-related proposals unless using renewable low- or zero-carbon fuels.
• Focus areas include:

- Active or passive performance-enhancing solutions. - Novel propulsion systems and augmented propulsion technologies. - Hull performance enhancements and advanced materials. - Digital twin and AI-based optimization for energy management. - Economic viability assessments, including investment, operational savings, and maintenance costs. - Safety, environmental, and operational impact assessments. - Replicability and scalability studies for various ship types (e.g., ro-pax, container ships, bulk carriers, tankers).

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Technologies must be demonstrated at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4-5 by project completion.
• Proposals must include a methodology for assessing energy savings, GHG intensity, and air pollution impacts, aligned with IMO GHG strategy, FuelEU Maritime Regulation, and LCA guidelines.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2025-12-17
• Deadline: 2026-04-13T22:00:00Z

Application Process (High-Level)

• Two-stage process:

- First stage: Blind evaluation of proposals (applicants must not disclose organization names, logos, or personnel details in the abstract or Part B). - Second stage: Full proposal submission for shortlisted applicants.

• Submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal.

Post-Award Obligations

• Projects must report results to the Zero Emission Waterborne Transport (ZEWT) Partnership for monitoring KPIs.
• The granting authority may object to the transfer of ownership or exclusive licensing of results for up to 4 years post-project.
• Standard Horizon Europe reporting requirements apply, including financial and technical progress reports.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU Member States, Horizon Europe Associated Countries, and select non-associated countries with specific funding provisions (see Horizon Europe Programme Guide).
• Application language: English.

Notes

• Proposals must address EU added value, including contributions to the competitiveness of the EU waterborne industry, R&I capacity, and strategic autonomy.
• Synergies with EU/EEA-based shipyards, equipment manufacturers, and SMEs are encouraged.
• Use of Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS is mandatory if satellite-based data or services are employed.
• Proposals must include a technology development roadmap and explore business cases for sustainability.