FuelEU Maritime is entering its second year, and 2026 brings three deadlines that determine whether ships face penalties. By 31 March, verified compliance results confirm each vessel's surplus or deficit. Companies with a deficit must choose a strategy by 30 April, and penalties apply from May to June. Borrowing only works when the GHG intensity shortfall is no more than 2%, comes with a 10% penalty on borrowed surplus, and cannot be used in two consecutive years. Pooling lets operators offset a deficit with surplus from other vessels, with no penalty multiplier, and can be applied across an entire fleet. The right choice depends on fleet exposure and trading routes. Understanding the compliance position on a voyage by voyage basis matters more than a general estimate. Pooling and other mechanisms work best when set up early, before options narrow. The article also notes that KPI OceanConnect offers pooling access through two providers, plus EUA procurement, for operators that want a single counterparty for fuel and carbon compliance.
