Fisheries scheme expands grant support for vessel engine upgrades
UKPulse News Desk
Fishermen in England can now apply for grants towards new engines and gearboxes for their vessels through the expanded Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS). The support aims to help modernise vessels and reduce emissions.
- The Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS) now offers grant contributions for new engines and gearboxes.
- Support rates vary, with 90% for electric or hybrid engines, 65% for the Small Scale Coastal Fleet installing petrol/diesel, and 50% for other vessels installing petrol/diesel.
- The scheme is part of the £132 million committed to the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund up to the financial year 2030 to 2031.
The Fisheries and Seafood Scheme (FaSS) has expanded its support to include grant contributions for new engines and gearboxes on fishing vessels across England. This change, effective from today, 15 September 2026, aims to help vessels become more efficient and reduce engine emissions.
Fishermen can now apply for varying rates of support. Electric or hybrid engines are eligible for a 90% contribution, regardless of vessel or business size. For new petrol or diesel engines, the Small Scale Coastal Fleet can receive a 65% contribution, while all other vessels are eligible for 50%.
The scheme, administered by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, is funded by the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund. This fund has committed £132 million over the next five years, with £5 million in investment already approved for projects since FaSS reopened on 13 April 2026.
Paul Errington, Acting Director of Finance at MMO, encouraged operators to consider the expanded scheme for engine upgrades. The scheme is open to individuals involved in fishing, aquaculture, seafood processing, marine conservation, or related environmental work.
Why this matters: The expansion of the Fisheries and Seafood Scheme to include engine and gearbox upgrades aims to support the modernisation of fishing vessels, improve efficiency, and reduce emissions within the fishing sector, contributing to long-term growth and sustainability.
What this means for you: If you are a fisherman in England, you may now be eligible for grant contributions towards new engines and gearboxes for your vessel, potentially reducing the cost of upgrading to more efficient or lower-carbon technologies.