Netherlands Maritime Masterplan
Complete guide to the Netherlands Maritime Masterplan (MMP): €165M budget for hydrogen inland and short-sea shipping. Eligibility, process, and deadlines.
Netherlands Maritime Masterplan
Greening Inland Waterways and Short-Sea Shipping
€165 Million Total Budget (2023-2030)
Up to 40% Coverage Rate
Program Overview
Administering Body: Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO)
Total Budget: €165 million (2023-2030)
Coverage Rate: Up to 40% of eligible costs
Primary Focus: Inland vessels, short-sea shipping, infrastructure
Application Cycle: Annual
Geographic Scope: Netherlands and Dutch-flagged vessels
The Dutch Maritime Masterplan focuses on greening inland waterways and short-sea shipping. With strong emphasis on hydrogen bunkering infrastructure and demonstration projects, it targets the Netherlands’ extensive inland shipping sector.
The Netherlands has one of the world’s largest inland shipping fleets, with over 5,000 vessels operating on its extensive network of rivers and canals. The Maritime Masterplan aims to accelerate the transition of this fleet to zero-emission propulsion, with hydrogen as a key technology pathway alongside battery-electric solutions.
Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Apply
- Dutch-registered shipping companies
- Inland waterway operators
- Short-sea shipping companies with Dutch operations
- Port authorities and infrastructure developers
- Technology providers and shipyards in the Netherlands
- Consortiums with Dutch-based lead partners
Eligible Project Types
- Inland Vessels: Hydrogen-powered newbuilds and retrofits for river/canal operations
- Short-Sea Shipping: Coastal vessels with hydrogen propulsion
- Infrastructure: Hydrogen bunkering facilities at Dutch inland ports
- Demonstration: Pilot projects proving commercial viability
- Container Swap Systems: Swappable hydrogen container infrastructure
What’s Covered
| Cost Category | Eligible? | Typical Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vessel Construction | Yes | Up to 40% | Additional costs vs. conventional |
| Fuel Cell Systems | Yes | Up to 40% | Maritime-approved systems |
| Hydrogen Storage | Yes | Up to 40% | CH2 or LH2 systems |
| Bunkering Infrastructure | Yes | 30-40% | Inland port facilities |
| Engineering & Design | Yes | 30-40% | Additional hydrogen-specific design |
| Operational Costs | No | 0% | Not eligible |
Funded Projects
Notable projects supported by the Maritime Masterplan include:
- H2ESTIA - First liquid hydrogen dry bulk carrier, managed by Van Dam Shipping
- Multiple inland vessel hydrogen retrofit projects
- Bunkering infrastructure development at key Dutch inland ports
Application Process
- Preparation (2-3 months): Develop technical concept, gather cost estimates, calculate emission reductions
- Submission: Apply through RVO portal during open application window
- Evaluation (3-4 months): Technical and financial assessment by RVO
- Award: Formal decision and grant agreement negotiation
Get in Touch
Whether you’re planning a hydrogen inland vessel or developing bunkering infrastructure in the Netherlands, expert guidance can help navigate the application process.
Email: hello@hydrogenshipbuilding.com
Additional Resources
| All Funding News | EU Innovation Fund | Norway Enova | Ships Database |