EU Okays Danish Seafarer Scheme Extension to Offshore Wind Fleet

The European Commission has approved the extension of a scheme supporting the maritime transport sector in Denmark to new types of vessels, including the ones working in the offshore wind industry.

Under the amended scheme, shipping companies registered in the Danish International Register of Shipping (DIS) and employing seafarers aboard certain specialised vessels providing offshore activities, such as, for example, guard vessels, vessels servicing offshore installations and vessels for raising, repairing and dismantling wind turbines can benefit from an exemption from income taxes for their seafarers.

This is in line with the Commission’s interpretation of the guidelines on State aid to maritime transport. The Commission concluded that the scheme, which will run for ten years after its entering into force, is in line with these guidelines because it will contribute to the competitiveness of the EU maritime transport sector, while boosting employment and ensuring a level playing field.

The scheme, as extended, applies to the same types of vessels covered by the extension of the Danish tonnage tax scheme, which was approved by the Commission in October 2018.