The UK government, through Innovate UK and the Department for Transport, has launched the sixth round of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC). This initiative aims to advance the development and deployment of innovative technologies that reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the maritime sector. With a total funding pool of up to £30 million, CMDC Round 6 is divided into three distinct strands:

  1. Pre-deployment Trials
  2. Feasibility Studies
  3. Smart Shipping

Each strand targets specific aspects of maritime decarbonisation, offering tailored support to projects at different stages of development.

  1. Pre-deployment Trials

The Pre-deployment Trials strand focuses on the design, development, and testing of novel clean maritime technologies. Projects under this category should aim to validate technologies in preparation for full-scale deployment, ensuring they are operationally effective and ready for market introduction.

Key Details:

  • Funding Available: Projects can receive grants for eligible costs ranging from £100,000 to £2 million.
  • Project Scope: Emphasis is on on-vessel technologies, infrastructure technologies, or a combination of both. The goal is to conduct rigorous pre-deployment testing to demonstrate the viability of these innovations in real-world maritime settings.
  • Eligibility: UK-registered businesses of any size can lead a project but must collaborate with other UK-registered organisations. This collaborative approach ensures a comprehensive evaluation of the technology from multiple perspectives within the industry.

Applicants are encouraged to ensure their projects are not primarily focused on Smart Shipping technologies, as these are specifically addressed under a separate strand.

  1. Feasibility Studies

The Feasibility Studies strand is designed to support projects in the early stages of development. These studies should assess the technical and economic viability of clean maritime technologies, providing a foundation for future real-world demonstrations and deployments.

Key Details:

  • Funding Available: Grants are available for projects with eligible costs between £75,000 and £1 million.
  • Project Scope: Projects should undertake comprehensive feasibility studies related to on-vessel technologies, infrastructure technologies, skills development, or a combination thereof. The objective is to evaluate the potential impact and practicality of proposed solutions in reducing maritime emissions.
  • Eligibility: Open to UK-registered businesses of any size, leading a consortium of other UK-registered organisations. This collaborative framework fosters a multidisciplinary approach to tackling maritime decarbonisation challenges.

It’s important to note that projects focusing on Smart Shipping technologies should consider applying under the dedicated Smart Shipping strand.

  1. Smart Shipping

The Smart Shipping strand aims to fund projects that leverage digital technologies to reduce GHG emissions and improve air quality in the maritime transport sector. This includes the development of autonomous and intelligent shipping solutions that enhance operational efficiency and environmental performance.

Key Details:

  • Funding Available: Eligible projects can receive funding for costs ranging from £75,000 to £2 million.
  • Project Scope: Focus areas include the development and testing of digital solutions such as autonomous vessel technologies, advanced data analytics for route optimisation, and smart port infrastructure. These innovations should contribute directly to emission reductions and improved air quality.
  • Eligibility: UK-registered businesses of any size are invited to lead projects, in collaboration with other UK-registered entities. This ensures a cohesive effort in integrating smart technologies into the maritime industry.

Applicants should ensure their proposals are specifically aligned with Smart Shipping technologies to qualify under this strand.

Application Process and Deadlines

All three strands of CMDC Round 6 close at 11am on Wednesday, 16th April 2025.

Prospective applicants are advised to thoroughly review the specific eligibility criteria and project scopes for each strand to ensure their proposals align with the competition’s objectives. Applications must be submitted through the official Innovation Funding Service (IFS) portal before the stated deadline.

Strategic Importance

The CMDC Round 6 is a critical component of the UK’s broader strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. By investing in innovative maritime technologies, the competition seeks to:

  • Accelerate Decarbonisation: Facilitating the development and deployment of technologies that significantly reduce GHG in the maritime sector.
  • Enhance Competitiveness: Positioning the UK as a global leader in clean maritime solutions, thereby boosting economic growth and creating high-skilled jobs.
  • Promote Collaboration: Encouraging partnerships among businesses, research institutions, and government bodies to foster a cohesive approach to maritime innovation.

By addressing various facets of maritime operations—from technological feasibility to smart, data-driven solutions—the CMDC Round 6 aims to create a sustainable and resilient maritime industry for the future.

For detailed information on each strand and guidance on the application process, applicants should refer to the official competition briefs provided by Innovate UK and the Department for Transport:

CMDC Round 6: Pre-deployment trials

CMDC Round 6: Feasibility studies

CMDC Round 6: Smart shipping

To discuss your project in more detail, contact RedKnight today.

 

 

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