The maritime sector has received £60 million in government funding distributed to innovative companies nationwide developing futuristic green technology.

The UK government is set to fund the development of new clean maritime technology across a 2-year period. Companies in 12 regions around the UK will benefit from the cash, generating highly skilled jobs across the nation and positioning the UK as a world leader in green solutions.

The Transport Secretary, Mark Harper, visited Artemis Technologies in Belfast on Tuesday 14 February to see some of the tech in action.

Using technologies adapted from the worlds of high-performance yacht racing, motorsports and aerospace, the company is developing vessels that effectively ‘fly’ above the water surface. The vessels produce zero emissions when foiling and offer energy savings of up to 90% resulting in significantly lower operating and maintenance costs.

Mark Harper, Transport Secretary said:

"Our maritime sector imports 95% of goods into the UK and contributes £116 billion to our economy – more than both aviation and rail combined. 

"With growing the economy one of the government’s top priorities, we must continue our efforts to ensure the UK remains a pioneer in cutting-edge clean maritime solutions.  

"The funding we’re awarding today will help to do just that, bringing emission-free concepts to life and fuelling innovation."

Sarah Treseder, CEO, UK Chamber of Shipping said:

"Congratulations to all the successful bids, which cover a wide range of technologies and aspects of shipping.

"The UK Chamber of Shipping is committed to net zero by 2050. This funding is an important milestone in ensuring we continue to work together to achieve this important target and will help us complete the journey from theory to reality for zero emission shipping."