Greece Prioritizes Green Transition and Digitalization in Maritime Sector

Green transition and digitalization are the two key pillars shaping the policies of the Greek Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, according to Deputy Minister Stefanos Gikas.

Speaking at the 10th ShipIT Conference on Tuesday, Gikas emphasized that the ministry’s strategy aligns with environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) objectives. This strategy is being implemented through studies conducted in collaboration with certified organizations, focusing on decarbonization, electrification, and providing electricity to ships to reduce their environmental impact.

“In this context, a total of 10 million euros has been approved to enable the electrification of docked ships—commonly known as ‘cold ironing’ — at the first four ports: Rafina, Lavrion, Corfu and Kavala. The goal is for twelve ports across the country to be equipped with similar capabilities by 2029,” Gikas stated.

He further highlighted Greece’s active participation in the “Clean Energy Marine Hubs” initiative on the international stage. The initiative aims to mobilize the shipping industry to unlock global production, transport, and use of low-carbon marine fuels.

Funding the green transition in coastal shipping in Greece

Deputy Shipping Ministry Stefanos Gikas (right). Photo source: Shipping Ministry

Outlining additional projects aligned with these goals, Gikas mentioned contracts worth over one million euros that have been awarded for studies under the auspices of the Hellenic Republic Asset development Fund (HRADF). These studies aim to facilitate the gradual replacement of coastal shipping vessels as part of the broader green transition in the shipping sector.

He also noted that up to 360 million euros has been allocated by the ministry through the 2021-2027 National Strategic Reference Framework for the modernization of vessels serving Greece’s remote, government-subsidized island routes.

Digitalization challenges and workforce upskilling

Regarding the digitalization of maritime and sea tourism services, Gikas highlighted several “e” applications already in use, such as e-Charter Permission and e-NEPA.

He also announced that the Greek Ministry of Maritime Affairs has declared 2024-2025 as the “Years of Nautical Training”, aimed at reskilling and upskilling professionals in the shipping industry, with a focus on training in new technologies.

Gikas emphasized that the primary objective is to ensure that all 1,000 annual graduates from the Greek Commercial Navy Academies are fully equipped to navigate the challenges of the new digital era.

Organized by BOUSSIAS Events, the ShipIT Conference is a leading platform for promoting green maritime digitalization, decarbonization, and enhancing business performance.