The UK government has announced £30 million in new funding to decarbonise maritime sector and solidify the nation's position as a clean energy power, according to GOV.UK's release.
This funding will support the growth of the UK's maritime sector, create jobs, and drive forward the development of zero-emission shipping technologies.
The funding comes from the latest round of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC6), launched on January 16th, 2025. This initiative supports the development of clean maritime technologies, including electric, hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, wind power, and more.
Previous rounds of CMDC have already supported over 300 organisations across the UK, leveraging over £100 million in private investment.
Successful projects have included the installation of Britain's first electric chargepoint network in the South West, the largest ever retrofit of a hydrogen research vessel in Wales, and the installation of a state-of-the-art carbon capture system on a vessel.
Applications for CMDC6 will be open from January 24th to April 16th, 2025.
The successful implementation of the AirWing project, an innovative wind propulsion system developed by GT Wings with support from previous CMDC funding, demonstrates the potential of these initiatives. This project is expected to significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions for Carisbrooke Shipping's vessels, showcasing the positive impact of collaboration between government, industry, and innovators.
This latest round of funding brings the total investment through the CMDC to £159 million.