Norway Enova
World’s Most Active Hydrogen Shipping Supporter
Program Overview
Enova is Norway’s state-owned enterprise dedicated to supporting renewable energy and climate-friendly solutions. Since 2020, Enova has emerged as the world’s most aggressive supporter of hydrogen maritime technology, offering unprecedented coverage rates and funding multiple project types from vessels to bunkering infrastructure.
What sets Enova apart is its willingness to fund projects at various scales—from small coastal vessels to large bulk carriers—and its comprehensive approach to building a complete hydrogen maritime ecosystem. The program has supported groundbreaking projects like the MF Hydra ferry and multiple liquid hydrogen bulk carriers, demonstrating Norway’s commitment to leading the maritime hydrogen transition.
Eligibility Criteria
✅ Who Can Apply
- Companies registered in Norway
- Norwegian shipowners and operators
- Technology providers operating in Norway
- Port operators and infrastructure developers
- Consortiums with Norwegian partners
- Foreign companies with Norwegian operations
✅ Eligible Project Types
- Vessels: Newbuilds with hydrogen propulsion (liquid or compressed)
- Infrastructure: Hydrogen bunkering facilities and storage
- Production: Green hydrogen production facilities
- Technology: Fuel cell systems and storage solutions
- Demonstration: Pilot projects proving commercial viability
- Retrofits: Converting existing vessels to hydrogen (case-by-case)
❌ Typically Not Eligible
- Projects with no connection to Norway
- Conventional propulsion systems
- Projects without clear CO₂ reduction
- Pure R&D without commercial application
- Projects that would be commercially viable without support
- Operational costs (only CAPEX eligible)
What’s Covered
Enova covers the additional costs (CAPEX) of choosing hydrogen technology over conventional alternatives. Coverage rates vary by project type and innovation level.
| Cost Category | Eligible? | Typical Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vessel Construction | ✅ Yes | 40-80% | Additional costs vs. conventional vessel |
| Fuel Cell Systems | ✅ Yes | 60-80% | Complete fuel cell package |
| Hydrogen Storage Tanks | ✅ Yes | 60-80% | LH₂ or compressed hydrogen systems |
| Bunkering Infrastructure | ✅ Yes | 50-70% | Shore-side facilities and equipment |
| Production Facilities | ✅ Yes | 40-60% | Electrolyzers and supporting systems |
| Battery Systems | ✅ Partial | 30-50% | When part of hybrid hydrogen system |
| Engineering & Design | ✅ Yes | 40-60% | Additional engineering for hydrogen systems |
| Safety Systems | ✅ Yes | 50-70% | Hydrogen-specific safety equipment |
| Operational Costs | ❌ No | 0% | Fuel costs, crew, maintenance not eligible |
| Land Acquisition | ❌ No | 0% | Only equipment and construction eligible |
Example: 7,700 DWT Liquid Hydrogen Bulk Carrier
This is a simplified example. Actual coverage rates depend on project evaluation, innovation level, and available budget in the funding round.
Application Process
Enova typically has 3-4 application rounds per year. The process from application to decision generally takes 3-6 months.
Preparation Phase
2-4 months before deadline
- Develop detailed technical concept and specifications
- Obtain cost estimates from shipyards or suppliers
- Calculate CO₂ reduction vs. conventional alternative
- Gather letters of support from partners and customers
- Prepare financial model showing project viability
- Contact Enova for preliminary discussions (recommended)
Application Submission
During open call window (typically 6-8 weeks)
- Submit online application through Enova portal
- Provide complete technical documentation
- Include detailed cost breakdown (CAPEX)
- Document emission reduction calculations
- Attach supporting letters and contracts
- Meet all application deadline requirements
Evaluation & Review
2-4 months after deadline
- Technical evaluation by Enova specialists
- Financial viability assessment
- CO₂ reduction verification
- Comparison with other applications
- Possible requests for clarification or additional info
- Board decision on funding allocation
Award & Implementation
After positive decision
- Receive formal award notification
- Negotiate and sign grant agreement
- Begin project implementation
- Submit progress reports (typically semi-annual)
- Receive disbursements based on milestones
- Complete project and final reporting
Application Tips
Clearly demonstrate significant emission reductions. The stronger your environmental impact, the better your chances.
Provide detailed, well-documented cost estimates. Unrealistic numbers will hurt your credibility.
Show committed partners and customers. Letters of intent and contracts strengthen applications.
Demonstrate the project makes economic sense with the support. Show market demand and business model.
Proven or low-risk technology scores better than unproven concepts. Reference similar successful projects.
Provide realistic project schedule with clear milestones. Show you can execute within proposed timeframe.
Upcoming Deadlines
Next Application Round
Expected Opening: Q1 2026 (typically January-March)
Typical Duration: 6-8 weeks submission window
Decision Timeline: 3-6 months after deadline
2026 Expected Schedule
Note: Exact dates are announced on Enova’s website typically 2-3 months before each round opens. Application windows may vary based on available budget and project pipeline. Check our latest Enova news for confirmed dates.
Don’t Miss the Next Round
Application preparation takes 2-4 months. Start planning now to be ready when the next window opens.
Get Application Guidance →Need Help With Your Enova Application?
Navigating Enova applications requires understanding of Norwegian maritime priorities, realistic cost estimation, and compelling CO₂ reduction calculations. Whether you’re planning your first hydrogen vessel or expanding an existing project, expert guidance can significantly improve your chances of success.
I Can Help You With:
- ✓ Evaluating if your project qualifies for Enova support
- ✓ Calculating realistic coverage rates for your specific case
- ✓ Preparing cost breakdown and CO₂ reduction documentation
- ✓ Understanding application requirements and evaluation criteria
- ✓ Strategic timing of your application
- ✓ Tracking upcoming deadlines and funding availability
Get in Touch
As a naval architect tracking Norwegian hydrogen maritime developments since 2020, I maintain detailed knowledge of Enova’s evaluation criteria, successful application patterns, and program evolution.