The UK government has announced 60 million GBP in government funding to advance technologies that can help decarbonise the maritime sector.
This funding comes from the third round of the government’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC3).
Transport Secretary Mark Harper said:Our maritime sector imports 95% of goods into the UK and contributes £116 billion to our economy – more than both aviation and rail combined.
With growing the economy one of the government’s top priorities, we must continue our efforts to ensure the UK remains a pioneer in cutting-edge clean maritime solutions.
Companies in 12 regions across the UK will receive funds from this investment.
For example, Artemis Technologies, which is based in Belfast, is using technologies adapted from yacht racing, motorsports and aerospace to develop vessels that ‘fly’ above the water. These watercraft produce zero-emissions when foiling and offer energy savings of up to 90%.
Artemis Technologies will use the newly announced funding to help commercialise this technology.
CEO at Artemis Technologies Dr Iain Percy OBE said:The clean maritime demonstration competition is key to unlocking those innovations across the region that will transport the UK towards a more sustainable future and we are thrilled that it has once again recognised the integral role Artemis Technologies can play.
With this latest round of funding, we are emboldened to advance our green technology projects, develop world-leading clean vessels for our seas, and continue on our mission to lead the decarbonisation of maritime.
This funding will also benefit a project led by Collins River Enterprises Limited, which is building a fully electric ferry for use on the River Thames between Canary Wharf and Rotherhithe.
In addition, AceOn Battery Solar Technology Ltd will develop hydrogen-powered vessels to transfer crew to wind farms off the northeast coast of England, and WingTek will develop wind-assisted ships with high-tech sails, which will reduce the amount of fuel used.
