Norway grants diesel exemptions for ferries despite new hydrogen plant

The Norwegian Maritime Authority has granted special exemptions allowing eight tourist boats to continue operating on diesel in the Geirangerfjord, despite a planned 2026 ban on fossil fuels in the heritage area.

This decision has drawn criticism from clean energy advocates and local industry leaders. A new hydrogen production facility in Hellesylt was specifically built to provide zero-emission fuel for the region. Jens Berge, CEO of Norwegian Hydrogen, stated that the technology is ready and could serve as a temporary charging solution, noting that shipping companies had eight years to prepare.

Gabor Beyer, director of Ryze Power GmbH, described the decision as “quite foolish,” highlighting the missed opportunity to utilize the local green hydrogen infrastructure to build a profitable export business for Europe.