The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is actively involved in The Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC), a government initiative aimed at promoting net zero emissions in the maritime industry. Managed by Innovate UK on behalf of the Department for Transport’s UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE) program, the CMDC provides funding for green technology, decarbonization, and skills development projects. The current round, CMDC round 6, is open for UK-registered organizations to apply for a share of a £30 million fund to develop innovative clean maritime technologies and skills.
Gwen Lancaster, HQ Consultant Surveyor at MCA, has been contributing technical and specialist maritime insights to the CMDC since its inception. She emphasizes the importance of the program in funding projects that advance innovative ideas and concepts. The MCA plays a crucial role in providing technical maritime advice and guidance on technology focus, certification, surveying, and regulatory compliance for the program.
Previous rounds of the CMDC have supported a variety of projects, including future fuels like hydrogen and ammonia, electrification of vessels, and energy efficiency. The MCA’s involvement in the program is particularly vital when integrating innovative technologies with existing ships. For example, the MCA recently supported the integration and sea trials of a 20m wing sail developed by a consortium led by Smart Green Shipping on the UK-flagged Pacific Grebe. This autonomous sail has the potential to significantly reduce energy demand, fuel consumption, operating costs, and CO2 emissions, contributing to UK decarbonization efforts.
Decarbonizing the shipping industry is a top priority for both the UK and international maritime sectors. The MCA is dedicated to supporting safe and sustainable innovation in the industry to achieve this goal. Through its involvement in initiatives like the CMDC, the MCA provides technical expertise and guidance to ensure the successful development and implementation of clean maritime technologies.
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