Electric and hybrid propulsion in the Adriatic sea: what fishers and aquaculture Ooperators told us
12/12/2025
Understanding the Transition Toward Hybrid and Electric Propulsion in the Adriatic
As part of the 3EFISHING project, a detailed survey was conducted to collect data and analyse the interest of small-scale fishers and aquaculture operators in alternative propulsion technologies, including electric motors, hybrid systems, and low-emission fuels. The questionnaire also explored attitudes toward innovation, sustainability, and the future of green propulsion in the Adriatic Sea.
The project, thanks to Amap (Marche Region), Iamb-Ciheam Bari (Apulia Region) and the Croatian Ministry of Agriculture, engaged around 70 vessels, of which 70% were operated by small-scale fishers and 30% by aquaculture companies.
Eco-Innovation Adoption: Fisheries vs Aquaculture
The survey highlights a clear difference between the two sectors regarding the adoption of eco-innovations:
- More than 70% of aquaculture operators have introduced sustainable improvements in the last decade—such as solar panels, efficient production systems, or low-energy LED lighting.
- Among small-scale fishers, this figure is only 8%, indicating lower exposure to funding opportunities and a different perception of environmental impact.
This gap represents a significant factor when planning the transition toward low-emission propulsion solutions.
Motivations for Electric and Hybrid Propulsion
The survey also examined what motivates operators to consider electric motors and hybrid propulsion:
- For aquaculture operators, the main drivers are economic savings and access to public funding.
- For fishers, these motivations are combined with a strong sense of environmental responsibility, tied to the direct dependence of fishing activities on the health of marine ecosystems.
- A small percentage of both sectors recognized the potential branding and reputational benefits associated with adopting sustainable propulsion technologies.
These insights are essential for designing effective incentives and communication strategies.
Alternative Fuels: Hydrogen, Biodiesel, Gas and Beyond
Beyond hybrid and electric solutions, the survey explored operator opinions on alternative fuels for small Adriatic vessels:
Among small-scale fishers:
- Hydrogen: selected by one-third of respondents
- Biodiesel: chosen by over one-quarter
- No promising alternatives: identified by more than 30% of the sample
Among aquaculture operators:
- Biodiesel: strong interest from 40%
- Gas-based options (LBG, LNG, LPG): interest from 20%
- Hydrogen: indicated by 10%
- No promising alternatives: noted by 30%
This shows broader optimism in aquaculture compared to the more cautious stance of fishers.
Key Takeaways for the Future of Sustainable Propulsion in the Adriatic
The results offer an evidence-based snapshot of current attitudes toward eco-innovation, alternative fuels, and electric/hybrid propulsion within small-scale fisheries and aquaculture.
They underline:
- Different levels of readiness between fishers and aquaculture operators
- Clear economic and environmental motivations driving the transition
- The need for tailored policies, incentives, and communication strategies
These insights provide a valuable foundation for advancing the goals of the 3EFISHING project and accelerating the adoption of sustainable propulsion technologies across the Adriatic.
