UK Government Allocates £33 Million to Fund Clean Maritime Technology Projects

The UK Government has allocated £33 million in funding to more than 30 projects aimed at developing green technologies for the country’s ports and ships. The funding has been awarded to 33 projects across all 12 UK regions, with the goal of delivering demonstrations, factory trials, and feasibility studies. This initiative is intended to position the UK as a leader in emerging clean maritime technology, creating high-skilled sustainable jobs and boosting coastal economies. The funding comes from the fourth round of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition, focusing on developing clean maritime technologies such as electric, hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, and wind power.

The funding follows three previous rounds, which allocated over £95 million to 105 projects and leveraged over £45 million in private investment. Among the latest winners in Scotland are the Orkney Islands Council, the University of Strathclyde, and Edinburgh-based wastewater treatment startup Waterwhelm. Waterwhelm was awarded just under £130,000 to deliver a state-of-the-art demonstrator system at the Port of Leith for the production of hydrogen for shore power, using treated wastewater for hydrogen production.

The maritime minister Lord Davies emphasized the importance of bold investments to deliver greener shipping and create highly skilled jobs across the UK. The government also highlighted the partnerships between government and the private sector that have been fostered through this funding, paving the way for innovative solutions to decarbonize the maritime industry. The CEO of British Marine, Lesley Robinson, expressed excitement about the funding, stating that it will help accelerate the industry’s journey to net zero emissions and mark a new era in maritime history. The announcement of the winners coincides with the first-ever International Day of Clean Energy, declared by the United Nations to raise awareness about the clean energy transition and prompt action.

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