In China, starting April 1, 2024, and running through March 31, 2028, the Shandong Provincial Development and Reform Commission is waiving lock passage fees for new energy vessels transiting the Shandong section of the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal, including its tributary channels. The policy aims to support the province’s push toward green, low-carbon, and high-quality development.
According to the official notice, eligible vessels include those powered solely by liquefied natural gas, methanol, hydrogen, ammonia, or battery systems—excluding lead-acid batteries. Also included are dual-fuel vessels with a fuel substitution rate of at least 60% for LNG or 50% for methanol. The exemption applies regardless of whether the vessel is loaded or empty.
The commission has not disclosed the expected fiscal impact or any budget allocation tied to the measure. The move is one of China’s more targeted inland waterway efforts to promote clean energy shipping and reduce reliance on conventional marine fuels.
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Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
