Energy Transition Partnership: Driving Climate Neutrality in Fisheries and Aquaculture

The Energy Transition Partnership in EU Fisheries and Aquaculture (ETP) is a multi-stakeholder platform set under the European Commission (DG MARE), that is breaking new ground in the sustainable development of the EU's fisheries and aquaculture sectors. The ETP was one of the key actions announced in the Communication and launched by the Commission in June 2023, to improve governance in the sector, by fostering cooperation, knowledge sharing, and stakeholder dialogue to accelerate the sector's energy transition.

Aiming for climate neutrality in fisheries and aquaculture by 2050, the ETP promotes clean energy solutions and energy-efficient practices. This inclusive partnership intend to gather a broad range of stakeholders, notably from the fisheries and aquaculture sector; the ancillary activities sector; the processing sector; fishing port authorities; shipbuilders; gear manufacturers; NGOs; research organisations; financial institutes; the energy and maritime transport sector; relevant EU agencies, and national and regional public authorities.

The ETP aims to contribute with recommendations to the detailed roadmap with key milestones and actions to guide the energy transition of the EU fisheries and aquaculture sector, as announced in 2023 Communication.

Supported by the recently established Assistance Mechanism, the ETP coordinates discussions across five thematic areas, led by the newly appointed Support Group, composed by 10 Coordinators (key stakeholders who are members of the ETP community). Within this structure, working groups focusing on each theme will shape recommendations for the Energy Transition roadmap, set for publication by the end of 2025.

The ETP website, now hosted on the Maritime Forum (previously within the EU Blue Economy Observatory), expands the initiative’s presence within the maritime community. Through the website, stakeholders can access updates on policies, initiatives, and developments related to the energy transition to support EU policy-making. To further foster knowledge exchange and community engagement, ETP is organising seminars, webinars, and segment-specific workshops, and compiling a compendium of best practices and a guide on financing opportunities alongside other relevant information, to showcase successful stakeholder initiatives and energy transition projects.

Don’t Miss the Upcoming Activities:

• Save the Date for Future Events! On December 11-12, 2024, ETP will host additional workshops in Brussels, focusing on Small-Scale Coastal Fisheries (SSCF), Large-Scale Fisheries (LSF), and Distant Water Fisheries (DWF). Stay tuned for registration details and the full agenda.

The ETP invites everyone interested to subscribe or register for membership to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and explore innovative solutions, get insights from key conferences and workshops and be part of the transition toward climate-neutral practices by 2050!