About the project
PILOTech is a cross-border initiative that aims to reduce CO2 emissions from pilotage operations in the Central Baltic region. The project brings together partners from Estonia, Finland, Latvia, and Sweden to test and evaluate innovative low-emission technologies, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen cross-border cooperation in pilotage. PILOTech is co-funded by the Interreg Central Baltic Programme, and it runs until April 2029 with a total budget of around EUR 2.7 million.The project follows a clear three-step approach:
1. Feasibility studies and assessment of CO2 reduction strategies for pilot boat operations
2. Testing and evaluating CO2 emission reduction methods and technologies on pilot boats
3. Knowledge transfer and ensuring successful dissemination of the project results with external stakeholders
Novia's role is to lead a cross-border feasibility study on diesel-electric hybridisation and alternative fuel retrofits for pilot boats. In addition, Novia drafts a report on the GHG impacts of remote pilotage. Novia will also test simulation-based strategies for reducing CO2 emissions in pilotage, and explore simulation-based optimization strategies for pilotage fleet resourcing and scheduling. Finally, Novia supports the overall project implementation through workshops and training on remote pilotage practices.
UN's Sustainable Development Goals
Ahmed Elhadi
Project Leader