As global emissions standards tighten, ports and maritime authorities are rolling out new schemes to reward vessels that operate more efficiently and sustainably.
Oslo Port – Rewarding Emission Reductions
Starting in 2026, the Port of Oslo will introduce financial incentives for cleaner shipping. Vessels which operate emission-free in and out of the Steilene area will receive a 100% discount on quay fees, while cargo vessels that connect to established shore power facilities will qualify for a 20% discount. At the same time, the former 20% discount for scheduled-route traffic will be discontinued, shifting the scheme toward rewarding genuine emissions reductions.
Environmental discounts are calculated using two established methods:
Environmental Port Index (EPI) – specifically for cruise ships. The EPI measures a vessel’s environmental performance while in port, fuel consumption and use of shore power. It is managed by EPI AS (developed with DNV and Norwegian ports). Cruise ship owners should register their vessels and report technical data to the EPI portal, which in turn will allow the Port of Oslo to issue discounts based on the ship’s EPI score.
Environmental Ship Index (ESI) – used for all ship types. Administered by the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), ESI evaluates ships’ overall emissions performance and increasingly considers at-berth emissions. Ship-owners voluntarily register their vessels and provide verified emissions data, and higher ESI scores make ships eligible for larger environmental discounts at Oslo.
By linking port fees to EPI and ESI scores, the Port of Oslo ensures that financial incentives reward real, verifiable reductions in ship emissions, encouraging greener shipping practices across all vessel types.
Source: NorthStandard
