UK government invests £77 million to decarbonize its maritime sector

The UK government has launched the multi-million-pound Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) competition, with the aim to decarbonize the country’s maritime sector. This £77 million investment is the first time the UK government has specifically targeted this level of funding on green maritime technology that is already well developed. The funding will take the technology from the factory to the sea, helping to identify the projects with the longest-term impact in reducing emissions.

Successful projects must demonstrate the potential to launch a zero-emission vessel by 2025 in collaboration with major UK ports and operators. Examples of technology that can be funded include battery electric vessels, shoreside electrical power, ships running on low-carbon fuels like hydrogen or ammonia, and wind-assisted ferries.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “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.”

The competition will be overseen by Innovate UK, which has a record of delivering similar competitions across the government successfully. The UK government is also calling on universities across the country to join forces and establish a new Clean Maritime Research Hub, with £7.4 million in government funding and additional funding from academia and industry.

Potential Environmental Impact:

This investment demonstrates the government’s commitment to a new green age for maritime travel that is free from emissions and in line with the 1.5-degree temperature target set by the Paris Agreement. The Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) competition, Clean Maritime Research Hub, and the wider UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE) programme aim to tackle shipping emissions and advance the UK towards a sustainable shipping future.

The investment will support a cleaner freight system, a more environmentally friendly tourism industry, and a net-zero maritime sector. The new Clean Maritime Research Hub will deliver research in the fundamental science behind clean maritime technologies, building evidence and expertise for the industry. It will also support skills development and generate knowledge for maritime decision-makers.