Green Maritime
The global maritime industry is aiming to reduce emission from all vessels. Norway is one of the world's most complete maritime commercial regions and is currently pioneering sustainable ship design and equipment with digital transition on every level. The focus is on reducing emissions and costs through research and development in newbuilds, retrofits, and upgrades.
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As Norway embarks upon the green shift, the shipping industry has been quick to embrace the need for green technologies. Greater Bergen has an excellent environment for the research, development and testing of these solutions.
Norway has always been a shipping nation, with the west coast playing a central role. From its early days as a port city, it has grown into a major trade centre. The port of Bergen is Norway’s 2nd largest port and hosts the country’s largest fleet of seafaring vessels. It’s also the main headquarters for the Norwegian Navy.
In the digital forefront
Digitalisation within the shipping industry has become increasingly prevalent during the last several decades. From ship design to global tracking to long-distance communication, the industry has embraced digitalisation in all its operations.
Home to two industry clusters, multiple research institutes and scores of private firms, the region has been a hotbed and a centre of data-driven innovation in alternative fuel technologies and zero-emission propulsion systems. Hydrogen, ammonia, electrification, and fuel cells are among the research areas that these organisations are exploring.
The region’s shipping industry employs thousands and is responsible for billions in created value.
Business opportunities
Bergen has always been a shipping hub with a highly developed and thriving shipping industry. As Norway moves forward with its net-zero ambitions, efforts are already underway to decarbonise the industry.
Next-gen ships and energy
Norway has been a frontrunner in developing batteries for ferries. Soon, all Norwegian ferries will be equipped with batteries. In addition, charging stations are becoming increasingly prevalent along many of the region’s key docks and ports.
For fast ferries, larger ships and the deep sea fleet, the industry in Norway is working hard to develop the next generation energy solutions like hydrogen and ammonia. Most of these projects are taking place on the west coast of Norway, the hot spot for companies that want to take part in zero-emission projects.
One-stop shop for the maritime industry
Greater Bergen is not only a key hub for Norway’s maritime industry. It is also home to an ecosystem of shipping companies and skilled manpower that offer a range of services beyond conventional maritime transport. These include:
- ship design and management
- skilled manpower with essential competencies
- harbour and logistical services
- legal and financial services
- insurance
- software and IT
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