
Green Investments in Fish Processing: A Milestone for Denmark and a Pathway for Europe
2024.12.20
EFFOP is pleased to highlight the recent achievement of Marine Ingredients Denmark, a member of EFFOP, in securing access to the Danish Business Promotion Scheme (Erhvervspuljen) for the fishmeal and fish oil industry. This development marks an important step in advancing sustainability within Denmark’s fish processing sector and sets an example for similar initiatives across Europe.
Marine Ingredients Denmark has worked over several years to include the Danish fishmeal and fish oil industry in the “Erhvervspulje”, a state-funded scheme aimed at supporting energy renovations and the green transition for businesses. Previously, large companies in the fish processing sector were excluded from this funding, creating challenges for implementing significant energy efficiency projects and transitioning to renewable energy sources.
On December 10, 2024, the European Commission approved Denmark’s state aid scheme under EU state aid rules. The scheme allocates €155 million (approximately DKK 1.1 billion) in direct grants to support green investments in the processing of fishery and aquaculture products. The program will run until the end of 2029 and aims to reduce CO2 emissions while promoting the use of eco-friendly energy sources.
This milestone was achieved through the efforts of Marine Ingredients Denmark, in collaboration with the Danish Seafood Association and the Danish Energy Agency (Energistyrelsen). Earlier this year, these organizations submitted a proposal that was reviewed and ultimately approved by the European Commission.
Marine Ingredients Denmark’s success provides an example for other fish processing industries across Europe: By securing access to funding for energy renovations. The transition to sustainable energy solutions and reduced CO2 emissions requires substantial investments. Funding schemes like the Erhvervspuljen are instrumental in helping businesses achieve these goals while contributing to broader environmental objectives.
EFFOP’s Secretariat is available to assist members in exploring similar opportunities in their respective countries.
Read also the European Commission’s press release from December 10, 2024: “Commission approves €155 million Danish State aid scheme to foster green investments in the fisheries and aquaculture processing sector” here.