A vision for zero-emission ferries, cruises and cargo ships within two years has been outlined with a £77 million government investment in clean maritime technology.
A zero emission vessels and infrastructure competition will enable companies to apply for funding, which must be used to decarbonise technology both on board and shoreside, according to the Department for Transport.
Successful projects must show they could use the money to work with major UK ports and operators to launch a zero-emission vessel by 2025 at the latest.
Examples of such technology include battery electric vessels, shoreside electrical power, ships running on low carbon fuels like hydrogen or ammonia, and wind-assisted ferries.
The initiative is the first time the government is intervening to specifically target this level of funding on green maritime tech which is already well developed, the DfT said.
The aim is to identify which projects will have a long-term impact in reducing emissions.
Transport secretary Mark Harper said: “When it comes to tackling climate change, we are taking action on all transport modes, which is why we’re making sure our world-leading maritime sector has a greener future.
“This multi-million-pound investment will help the latest tech ideas become reality and ensure UK waters will play host to green cargo ships, ferries and cruises in the next few years.
“Our funding will support a cleaner freight system, a more environmentally friendly tourism industry, and a net-zero maritime sector.”