Sea-LNG has welcomed the European Commission's Sustainable Transport Investment Plan (STIP), published on November 5, saying it represents recognition of the methane decarbonisation pathway for maritime transport.

The plan explicitly recognizes LNG, bio-methane, and e-methane within the clean-fuel mix, noting that "LNG, with effective methane-slip mitigation technologies, can also reduce GHG emissions." The organization also said the plan notes the trend of "ocean-going ships moving towards methane (LNG, bio-methane, and in future e-methane)."

The STIP, which forms part of the EU's Competitiveness Compass and Clean Industrial Deal, sets out a roadmap to accelerate the energy transition of waterborne and aviation transport sectors. The Commission said the plan is expected to mobilize at least €2.9 billion until the end of 2027.

Steve Esau, chief operating officer at Sea-LNG, noted: "Policymakers increasingly recognize the need to balance competitiveness with sustainability and to focus on proven practical and realistic solutions that deliver towards decarbonisation today. While there remain areas where further clarification is needed — particularly around investment, funding eligibility, and the practical implementation of neutrality — this moment clearly validates investments in the methane decarbonisation pathway."

Sea-LNG said the plan reflects calls for fuel and technology neutrality, ensuring methane, biomethane, and e-methane compete on equal terms with other clean fuels. The organization added that the STIP aligns with maritime market realities and recognizes the importance of infrastructure continuity.

According to DNV data, LNG-fuelled vessels accounted for 67% of all alternative-fuel vessel orders in the first 10 months of 2025, with 147 ships ordered. Sea-LNG said this demonstrates that over 70% of alternative-fuel vessel tonnage ordered in 2025 is methane-fuelled, according to DNV data.

The industry coalition also noted that the plan highlights steps towards a more integrated market for bio-methane, urging member states to avoid barriers to methane use and harmonize biomethane eligibility.

Mark Watts, Sea-LNG's European public affairs director, added: "In terms of next steps, investment and infrastructure clarity are key. Sea-LNG calls for clear funding and eligibility frameworks for methane-based fuels and continued recognition of existing LNG infrastructure as the backbone for scaling renewable methane. The STIP is a constructive step forward — a strong foundation for Europe's technology-neutral, market-driven maritime transition. The direction is clear, the technology is ready, the investment is happening — and waiting is not a plan."

The Commission said that to meet fuel targets set out in the ReFuelEU Aviation and FuelEU Maritime regulations, around 20 million tonnes of sustainable alternative fuels (13.2 million tonnes of biofuels and 6.8 million tonnes of e-fuels) will be needed by 2035.