The UK government has announced a £1.1 billion boost for the maritime industry. Of this, £448 million will come from the UK Shipping Office for Reducing Emissions (UK SHORE) program. This funding supports the research and development of new clean maritime technologies and fuels, such as electric, hydrogen, and wind power. Previously, UK SHORE has provided £240 million to over 200 projects, and the new funds will be allocated soon. The government aims to help the UK achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Regional Developments
The North West region has been allocated £150 million of the latest funding. As part of this, Maritime Minister Keir Mather visited Cammell Laird dry dock in Liverpool to highlight a successful project. A previous UK SHORE grant of £3.6 million helped secure an additional £3.6 million in private investment to install a zero-emission electric shore power system. Once operational, this system is expected to save the equivalent of the annual fuel consumption of 20,000 cars.
In other developments, Peel Ports announced an additional £300 million for its Liverpool, Hunterston, and Great Yarmouth ports. The Port of Tyne is also planning a £150 million development that is projected to create up to 12,000 jobs in offshore wind and manufacturing.
Policy Changes
The government also announced it will revise the national policy statement for ports in England and Milford Haven, Wales. This change is designed to help ports save time and money on planning applications, making it easier for them to expand and create more jobs in coastal communities.
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Source: Energy Voice
