Deadline: 16-Sep-2026
Innovate UK, as part of UK Research and Innovation, is partnering with the Department for Transport to invest up to £150 million in innovative clean maritime solutions aimed at accelerating decarbonisation in the shipping sector.
The Energy Efficiency strand focuses on funding the development and build of innovative vessel energy efficiency technology along with any accompanying innovative infrastructure upgrades, as part of a broader initiative that also includes alternative fuel vessels, alternative fuel bunkering and storage infrastructure within ports, 100% battery electric vessels, vessel charging infrastructure, and shore power and port energy infrastructure.
This funding opportunity is part of the UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions programme, which aims to position the UK as a global leader in clean maritime technology. The programme supports the government’s Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy by accelerating the adoption of low-emission fuels and advanced technologies across the maritime sector.
The competition invites UK-registered organisations to collaborate on large-scale projects that will develop, deploy, and operate innovative clean maritime solutions in real-world environments over a three-year funded period, followed by a mandatory three-year demonstration phase without funding support. The objective is to ensure that supported technologies are not only developed but also proven in operational conditions.
Projects under this strand must have total eligible costs ranging between £6 million and £60 million, with a maximum grant request of £30 million. Additionally, no single participant can receive more than £20 million in funding. Projects are required to begin by 1 April 2027, complete all funded activities by 31 December 2029, and undertake a non-funded demonstration phase from 1 January 2030 to 31 December 2032.
To lead a collaborative project, the applying organisation must be a UK-registered business and must either be or work in partnership with a UK-registered ship owner, manufacturer, or operator. Where infrastructure development is involved, collaboration with a UK-based infrastructure owner or operator, such as a port or harbour authority, is also required. All funded participants must demonstrate an intention to exploit the project outcomes within or from the UK.
This initiative represents a substantial commitment to advancing energy-efficient maritime technologies and ensuring their long-term viability through real-world deployment and demonstration.
For more information, visit GOV.UK.
