Retrofitting of Inland Waterway Passenger and Freight Transport
Retrofitting existing inland waterway vessels with zero-emission or substantially lower-emission propulsion systems to extend fleet life while cutting emissions.
Substantial Contribution to Climate Change Mitigation
The activity covers the retrofitting of existing inland waterway passenger and freight vessels to achieve zero direct (tailpipe) CO2 emissions. Eligible retrofits include replacement of conventional diesel propulsion with battery-electric drivetrains, hydrogen fuel cell systems or other zero-emission power sources.
Alternatively, until 31 December 2025, retrofits that reduce direct CO2 emissions by at least 10% compared with the vessel's pre-retrofit performance may qualify as a transitional measure. The emission reduction must be verified through standardised measurement protocols under representative operating conditions, including typical route profiles, cargo loads and seasonal variations.
Retrofitting the existing inland waterway fleet addresses the long asset lifetimes of vessels, which typically exceed 30 years. By upgrading propulsion systems rather than requiring premature scrapping, this criterion delivers emission reductions cost-effectively while preserving embedded materials and avoiding the carbon footprint of new-build construction.
Substantial Contribution to Climate Change Adaptation
The retrofit must integrate climate adaptation measures in accordance with Appendix A. This includes upgrading cooling systems for higher ambient temperatures, strengthening hull integrity against changing water level regimes, and ensuring compatibility of new electric systems with expected flood and drought scenarios over the remaining asset life.
DNSH: Climate Change Adaptation
A climate risk assessment must be completed for the retrofitted vessel, accounting for the remaining expected lifetime post-retrofit. Material hazards include low-water events reducing operational windows, extreme heat affecting new battery or fuel cell systems, and increased flood risk to shore-side charging infrastructure required for the retrofitted vessel.
DNSH: Water and Marine Resources
Retrofit works must be carried out in compliance with environmental permits for shipyard operations. All removed materials, fluids and components must be handled as waste in accordance with the Waste Framework Directive. The retrofitted vessel must meet or exceed pre-retrofit standards for bilge water, sewage and cargo wash water management under the CDNI convention or national equivalents.
DNSH: Circular Economy
Removed propulsion components, including engines, gearboxes and fuel systems, must be directed to reuse, remanufacturing or recycling. At least 70% by weight of non-hazardous waste generated during the retrofit must be recovered. New battery systems installed must comply with Regulation (EU) 2023/1542, including carbon footprint declaration and recycled content requirements.
DNSH: Pollution Prevention and Control
During retrofit works, measures must prevent contamination of waterways from paint stripping, welding residues, lubricants and other pollutants. The completed vessel must comply with Stage V emission limits under Regulation (EU) 2016/1628 for any remaining combustion systems. Noise from the retrofitted propulsion must not exceed pre-retrofit levels and should preferably be reduced.