The UK government has taken a significant step towards decarbonizing its maritime sector by providing £60 million in funding to innovative companies developing futuristic green technology. The funding will be distributed to companies across 12 regions in the UK over a 2-year period, generating highly skilled jobs across the nation and positioning the UK as a world leader in green solutions.
This is the first time the UK government has provided funding for the development of new clean maritime technology, and it comes at a critical time for the industry. With growing pressure to decarbonize and reduce emissions, the maritime sector has been under increasing scrutiny to find sustainable solutions. The sector currently contributes to a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions and is seen as a vital area in the fight against climate change.
One company set to benefit from the funding is Artemis Technologies, based in Belfast. The company is using technologies adapted from high-performance yacht racing, motorsports, and aerospace to develop vessels that effectively “fly” above the water surface. The vessels produce zero emissions when foiling and offer energy savings of up to 90%, resulting in significantly lower operating and maintenance costs.
The funding comes from the government’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC3), which focuses on developing a range of clean maritime technologies, including hydrogen, ammonia, electric, and wind power. During the 2-year investment period, successful companies will be required to demonstrate that their projects will work in the real world, helping them progress towards becoming an everyday reality.
The Transport Secretary, Mark Harper, visited Artemis Technologies on February 14 to see some of the tech in action. He emphasized the importance of the maritime sector to the UK economy and stated that it was a priority for the government to continue efforts to ensure the UK remained a pioneer in cutting-edge clean maritime solutions. The funding would bring emission-free concepts to life and fuel innovation, he added.
The CEO at Artemis Technologies, Dr. Iain Percy OBE, welcomed the funding and stated that the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition was key to unlocking those innovations across the region that would transport the UK towards a more sustainable future. The funding would enable the company to advance its green technology projects, develop world-leading clean vessels for the seas, and continue its mission to lead the decarbonization of maritime.
The UK government’s funding for the development of clean maritime technology is a significant step towards decarbonizing the industry and reducing emissions. The funding will not only help create highly skilled jobs but also position the UK as a world leader in green solutions, offering hope for a sustainable future.
Source: Gov[Dot]UK
