Bild: Logo Bundesministerium für Verkehr und digitale Infrastruktur

LNG funding

First call for funding for LNG propulsion of sea-going vessels

The Federal Ministry for Transport and Digital Infrastructure (BMVI) calls for submission of funding applications for the installation or conversion of ship propulsion systems for liquefied gas. As of now, shipping companies can apply for subsidies for new and conversions of ships with LNG propulsion.

Eligible for funding is the exclusive or dual-fuel operation of main machines on newbuildings and existing ships. The vessels have to be registered in a German register for sea-going ships, fly the German flag and spend at least 51% of their operational time in European waters (including the respective exclusive economic zones).

Shipping companies of such ships may apply for a proportionate investment subsidy of the costs for installation of a LNG operated machine. Either the costs regarding environmental protection (if separately determinable) or the difference between the costs of LNG in comparison to a less environmentally friendly investment. According to the funding directive, the BMVI subsidises up to 40% of these costs. For medium-sized companies (up to 250 employees and 50 million annual turnover) the subsidisation quota rises to 50% and for small companies (up to 50 employees and 10 million annual turnover) even to 60% of the fundable costs.

The funding applications are processed by the "Bundesanstalt für Verwaltungsdienstleistungen" (federal administrative services agency - BAV) in Aurich. The funding applications have to be made in the electronic funding portal "easy-Online" by 28th of February 2018 and as signed printout submitted to BAV by 28th of March 2018.

Further information about the LNG funding program and application procedures can be found