BMT’s research project receives grant from MarRI-UK

Here at BMT, we are committed to a future vision of efficient and sustainable shipping and are proud to be a member of Maritime Research and Innovation UK (MarRI-UK), a collaboration between UK industry and academia to jointly tackle innovation and technology challenges. This week, MarRI-UK announced the results of its first funding call; £1.4m has been awarded to 10 organisations as part of the Clean Maritime Call, a MarRI-UK initiative funded by the Department for Transport (DfT). The grants will help to find innovative ways to develop technology to assist the UK’s transition to a future of zero emission shipping.

As a founding member, we have been involved in the MarRI-UK initiative since its inception and our team supported the creation and development of its research strategy. The recent press release announcing the available funding is not only great news for the companies involved in the project, but a ground-breaking step for MarRI-UK and all of its members.

One of the projects announced in the press release is led by us.  We are investigating alternative Asset Leasing Models (ALMs) that could be used to accelerate adoption on ships for certain Energy Saving Technologies (ESTs).  Relevant ESTs that are commercially available include wind assisted propulsion devices such as Flettnor Rotors.  ESTs are designed to improve vessel efficiency, lower fuel costs and reduce the pollution generated by shipping.  By understanding existing commercial leasing models in other sectors and industries, we are hoping to harness best practice and provide a further economic incentive for ship owners and operators to adopt such technologies.

This project is part of our wider programme of clean shipping initiatives. If you would like to know more about how our research is contributing to a cleaner future, or would like information on MarRI-UK Membership, please contact us at enquiries@bmtglobal.com

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Image used with permission from Anemoi Marine Technologies Ltd.