Around 11% of all transport carbon dioxide emissions in the European Union are generated by ships sailing to or from ports in the European Economic Area.

As part of the Fit-for-55 Package, the European Commission presented the FuelEU Maritime proposal with the aim of increasing the use of sustainable alternative fuels in European shipping and ports. This initiative seeks to limit greenhouse gas emissions (including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide) produced by ships of over 5,000 GT arriving or departing from European Union ports, regardless of their flag.

While increasing the use of low carbon fuels will be beneficial to accomplishing greenhouse gas emission reduction goals, it also comes at a cost as these energy sources will be more expensive in comparison to conventional fuel oils.

Installing a wind propulsion system can help shipping companies improve the efficiency of their fleets in an economically viable manner, regardless of the fuel used.