Over the next three years, the Dutch government will allocate 11.7 million euros to make inland vessels more sustainable. The money is intended for cleaner and newer marine engines, says outgoing Minister Cora van Nieuwenhuizen (Infrastructure). Shipowners and shipping companies can receive up to 200,000 euros in subsidy for adjustments to their fleet.
The purchase of these engines is expensive. According to the Minister, inland navigation plays an important role in sustainable transport, because it also prevents ‘the congestion of the roads’. She wants the Netherlands to set a good example as a ‘sailing nation’.
Almost 90 million euros to reduce emissions
The government has already pulled out the wallet for cleaner ships. Over the next five years, 65 million euros will be available to combat nitrogen emissions, for example by purchasing special catalytic converters. After 2025, another 14 million euros will be added.
At the end of last year, Van Nieuwenhuizen also made 1.5 million euros available for the development of more sustainable engines. Developers can receive a subsidy of up to 250,000 euros for this.
Also read: Minister allots €1.5 million to development of green marine engines
Source: ANP
