The government has called on shipbuilders, shipping firms, ports, scientists, and academics to submit proposals to a new competition for innovative technologies that can chart a greener future for the UK’s shipping sector.
The Department for Transport said this morning the £20m green shipping competition would support trials of projects that could bring the sector closer to net zero emissions, such as hydrogen powered vessels and electric charge point port infrastructure.
It urged players from across the maritime sector to collaborate with scientists and academics on proposals for the competition, noting that trials would allow companies to test emerging green technologies “with a view to them being developed commercially if proven to be successful”.
Maritime Minister Robert Courts said the competition launch marked a “turning point” for the UK maritime sector. “It’s an opportunity for businesses to develop the technologies of the future, not only protecting our environment but driving economic growth,” he said. “I urge this country’s best thinkers to put their green ideas forward and help us deliver a better, cleaner maritime sector.”
Meanwhile, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps emphasised how the shipping sector’s net zero transition could generate jobs across the UK, revitalise coastal communities, and help steer the nation closer to its 2050 net zero target.
“We have a proud shipbuilding history, and together with industry, I am determined to build on that as we look to develop the innovations of the future and meet our net zero target,” he said. “We are revolutionising maritime technology, and from electric boats to hydrogen ports, we will change the way this country sails forever, and bring jobs and prosperity to the UK.”
The UK has committed to bringing its domestic maritime emissions to net zero by 2050, alongside all other areas of the economy, however it is under growing pressure from green groups and its climate advisors the Climate Change Committee to set a global precedent and expand the scope of its climate targets to formally include emissions generated by international shipping and aviation.
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