By Tanya Weaver Mon 22 Apr 2024
Collected at : https://eandt.theiet.org/2024/04/22/uk-government-launches-ps8m-fund-boost-ai-maritime-sector
The UK government has launched the £8m Smart Shipping Acceleration Fund to help the maritime sector harness the benefits of AI, which has the “potential to revolutionise the sector”.
The fund aims to drive maritime innovation and move projects from the drawing board to reality.
It will support feasibility studies for new technologies such as AI, robotics and autonomous vessels, with projects ranging from self-driving boats to automated systems at ports.
For instance, applying these technologies at UK ports could lead to benefits such as reducing hazards, optimising port activities and cutting their environmental footprint.
Maritime minister Lord Davies said: “Using AI and cutting-edge technology to make boats smarter and transform port operations is part of our plan to decarbonise shipping, enhance safety for our seafarers and help grow the economy.
“AI has the potential to revolutionise the sector, create jobs and support the economy.”
Competition for funds will be overseen by Innovate UK.
This latest funding forms part of the UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE) programme . Launched in March 2022 and with £206m in funding, the programme is helping the sector reach net zero.
Lord Davies made today’s announcement while visiting Ocean Infinity, a Southampton-based marine robotics company creating robotic and uncrewed vessel technology. The company is using the funding it won from the UK SHORE programme to develop decarbonisation projects, including future propulsion systems.
Today’s funding news has been welcomed by many, including Eleanor Watson, AI ethics engineer and AI faculty at Singularity, who said: “It’s ultimately in the interest of businesses to embrace this.
“AI is advancing at a tremendous rate and its power or potential is now far clearer to the public. The technology’s vast applicability opens up so many opportunities and organisations cannot adapt quickly enough to new developments.”
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