The initiative forms the latest round of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC), aimed at achieving long-term sustainability and ensuring cleaner waters.
The funding will primarily focus on conducting feasibility studies to expedite the development of 'green corridors'. Green corridors are defined as zero emission maritime routes between two or more ports.
The studies will outline the necessary infrastructure along the routes to facilitate vessel access to green fuels and power charging systems. Additionally, they will address regulatory measures essential for advancing the decarbonisation of the shipping industry.
Since the CMDC funding was first announced, during London International Shipping Week in 2023, the number of partner countries has increased and now includes the Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, and Ireland.
If successful, the establishment of zero-emission shipping routes connecting the UK with key destinations such as the Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, and Ireland is anticipated.
The funding comes from the wider £206 million UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE) programme, announced in March 2022. Ireland and the Netherlands will provide match-funding for organisations in their countries, while Denmark and Norway will provide other contributions through access to information and facilitation of collaboration.
The UK-Ireland competition will open for bids on 15 April 2024 and the UK-Netherlands competition will open for bids shortly after on 3 June 2024. Both countries will provide match funding of £430,000. The competitions and procurements will be managed by Innovate UK.
Rhett Hatcher, CEO of the UK Chamber of Shipping, said: “Green corridors provide a meaningful contribution to decarbonising the shipping industry and this funding will help advance them from concept to reality.
“To be most impactful we need to look at the broadest range of fuels and technologies, including those that are available today and those that may become available in the future. Additionally, we must ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place along the corridor, port to port.”
Mark Simmonds, Director of Policy and External Affairs at the British Ports Association, said:
“Green corridors will be an important vehicle for shipping’s transition to net zero. UK ports are ambitious when it comes to decarbonising their own operations and supporting the shipping industry in its journey to net zero. This new funding will help join up efforts across the globe and we are excited to see the initiatives that will grow from it.”
For more information, visit:https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/international-green-corridor-fund/international-green-corridor-fund