Waterborne transport stands at the heart of Europe’s energy transition, facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities to cut CO2 emissions and improve energy efficiency. Against this backdrop, Magellan Circle, part of the Circle Group, plays a key role in Fleetfor55, a project designed to align maritime and inland waterway transport with the Fit for 55 targets set by the European Union for 2030. The project, coordinated by Hydrus and funded under Horizon Europe through the European Climate, Infrastructure, and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA), involves a consortium of 21 partners, including research institutions, shipowners, and maritime technology providers.
Fleetfor55 aims to foster the adoption of advanced technologies in the maritime sector. It focuses on retrofitting existing vessels to enhance energy efficiency and lower emissions, while also designing new ships that comply with advanced environmental standards. The project includes the development of web-based decision-support systems to assist operators in identifying and implementing the most suitable technologies. Additionally, it seeks to create a network of technological innovation, enabling knowledge transfer and the adoption of new solutions. Among its initiatives, Fleetfor55 features ten case studies exploring practical scenarios, with six focused on retrofitting projects and four on the construction of new vessels.
With over 20 years of expertise in transport, logistics, and the circular economy, Magellan Circle contributes to the project by providing European consultancy and strategic communication services. These efforts ensure that the outcomes of Fleetfor55 are disseminated and recognised across Europe. For its role in the project, Magellan Circle has secured a grant of €322,425.