In brief
Singapore and Norway announced a new research grant call to develop technologies for decarbonizing shipping. The grant, funded by both countries, will focus on alternative fuels, vessel efficiency, and digital green operations, with projects required to involve partners from both nations. This is the third round of collaboration, following calls in 2015 and 2018.
On November 5, 2026, Singapore and Norway announced a joint research grant to help cut emissions from international shipping. The maritime authorities from both countries – the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, the Research Council of Norway, and Singapore Maritime Institute – said the grant will fund projects that bring new technologies to the sea.
The program will target three key areas: alternative fuels and energy infrastructure, vessel energy efficiency and emissions reduction, and digitalisation for greener shipping operations. The goal is to find safer ways to use new fuels, make ships use less energy, and run their logistics more cleanly.
Singapore will offer up to 2.7 million Singapore dollars, about 2.12 million U.S. dollars, for Singapore‑based research and industry partners. Norway will contribute up to 20 million Norwegian kroner, roughly 2.15 million U.S. dollars, for Norwegian partners. The funds are intended to support collaborative projects that include research institutions and companies from both sides.
Each selected project may receive funding for up to four years. The call is open to proposals that show how the new technology can be applied in real shipping operations.
This is the third time the two countries have launched a joint research grant in this area. Earlier rounds in 2015 and 2018 funded four projects on maritime energy efficiency, emissions reduction, and emerging maritime technologies.
By tying funding to partnerships between Singaporean and Norwegian research bodies and industry, the grant aims to speed the transition to cleaner shipping for both the Far East and European markets.
The announcement follows growing international pressure to cut the shipping sector’s greenhouse gas emissions, which account for a significant share of global carbon output.
Industry experts say the collaboration could unlock new fuel solutions and digital tools that might bring the shipping world closer to the Paris Agreement goals.
For now, next steps include submitting proposals and forming cross‑border teams before the grant’s deadline.