UK launched a multi-million-pound Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) competition to help decarbonise its maritime sector.
This is the first time in UK history the government is intervening to specifically target this level of funding on green maritime tech which is already well developed. The funding will take the tech from the factory to the sea – identifying which projects will have a long-term impact in reducing emissions.
Successful projects must show they could use this money to work with major UK ports and operators to launch a zero-emission vessel by 2025 at the latest.
Examples of such technology include battery electric vessels, shoreside electrical power, ships running on low carbon fuels like hydrogen or ammonia, and wind-assisted ferries.
When it comes to tackling climate change, we are taking action on all transport modes, which is why we’re making sure our world-leading maritime sector has a greener future
Transport Secretary Mark Harper said.
The multi-million-pound Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) competition will see innovative companies apply for the funding, which must be used to decarbonise technology both on board and shoreside.
The investment demonstrates the government’s commitment to a new green age for maritime travel, which is free from emissions, in line with the 1.5-degree temperature target set by the Paris Agreement.
This investment is a clear statement that we are taking these plans seriously, helping to put the UK at the cutting edge of clean maritime technology while benefitting thousands of UK jobs
Defence Secretary and Shipbuilding Tsar, Ben Wallace, added.
The competition will be overseen by Innovate UK, which has a record of delivering similar competitions across government successfully.
The government is also calling on universities across the UK to join forces to establish a new Clean Maritime Research Hub, with £7.4 million funding from government and additional funding from academia and industry.
Research in the fundamental science behind clean maritime technologies will be delivered by the hub, building evidence and expertise for the maritime sector.
It will also support skills development across the industry and generate knowledge for maritime decision-makers.
The hub will be delivered in partnership with and co-funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
