Singapore and Norway support greener shipping

Singapore and Norway have launched a joint research grant programme to accelerate the decarbonisation of international shipping through innovation, technology and cross-border collaboration

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), the Research Council of Norway (RCN) and the Singapore Maritime Institute (SMI) announced the initiative on 5 November 2026.

The programme will work with research institutions and maritime industry partners from both countries to develop practical solutions to reduce emissions and improve the environmental performance of the global shipping sector.

The main areas of research

The grant call will focus on three main areas: alternative fuels and energy infrastructure, vessel energy efficiency and emissions reduction, and digitalisation for greener shipping operations.

Research into alternative fuels will explore safer handling and storage technologies, improved bunkering systems and charging infrastructure for electric vessels.

Projects focused on vessel efficiency will investigate ways to improve ship performance, optimise onboard energy use and reduce fuel consumption.

The digitalisation category will support developments in voyage optimisation, just-in-time arrivals, autonomous operations and improved data exchange between ships and ports. These technologies aim to streamline maritime operations while reducing unnecessary fuel use and emissions.

Singapore partners could receive up to S$2.7 million

Under the funding arrangement, SMI will provide up to S$2.7 million for Singapore-based research partners, while RCN will make up to NOK 20 million available for Norwegian partners.

All proposals must involve research institutions and industry participants from both countries, ensuring that projects address practical challenges faced by the maritime sector. Successful projects may receive funding for up to four years.

This programme marks the third joint maritime research grant call between Singapore and Norway, following previous programmes in 2015 and 2018.

Applications

Applications will open on 2 December 2026 and close on 20 January 2027. Further information on eligibility, funding requirements and the application process is available through the Research Council of Norway’s website.