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UK Government continues to support maritime AI and smart shipping

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UK Government continues to support maritime AI and smart shipping

UK Government continues to support maritime AI and smart shipping

On 22 April 2024, the UK Maritime Minister, Lord Davies, announced that the UK Government will invest £8 million in a Smart Shipping Acceleration Fund that is designed to help put the UK at the forefront of cutting-edge maritime technology and further enhance the UK’s reputation in the maritime sector. 

The Smart Shipping Acceleration Fund will drive maritime innovation and utilise the benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) to boost UK maritime productivity. The funding will go towards feasibility studies to develop smart shipping technologies such as AI, robotics and autonomous vessels. 

This initiative will be managed as a competition where project developers compete for funding. As previously with schemes of this nature, the successful projects will require matched funding from the private sector, thereby making this a joint private/public sector collaboration and inviting industry participation.

The Government has highlighted that cutting-edge maritime technology is expected to boost the UK economy, revolutionise its shipping sector, create jobs and support coastal communities. The Fund will also support projects that make UK waters safer, operations smoother and air cleaner, thereby promoting the decarbonisation of UK shipping. 

Any number of innovations will be considered and supported, from self-driving vessels to streamlined and automated port operations. For example, ports might apply for funding for projects that use AI to detect safety hazards, optimise port activities and reduce their carbon footprint.

AI is predicted to bring about real advancement to shipping through increased use of autonomous vessels, automation and data analysis as well as helping early adopters achieve decarbonisation goals. 

This latest funding forms part of the £206 million committed to the Department for Transport’s UK SHORE programme in March 2022, which invests in innovative maritime decarbonisation projects that reduce maritime emissions and help the UK achieve zero emission targets.

Please contact Colin Lavelle if you wish to further discuss anything arising out of this article.

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