£15m for zero-emission testing at Belfast Harbour
It comes after a £15m investment from UK Research and Innovation's Local Innovation Partnerships Fund.
Belfast Harbour is set to host live testing of zero-emission transport and energy systems, following a £15m investment from the UK Research and Innovation's Local Innovation Partnerships Fund. The project, led by Artemis Technologies, aims to integrate electric vessels, high-power marine charging, autonomous transport and energy systems through secure digital twin technology.
Testing these technologies within an operational port environment will demonstrate their performance as an integrated system, helping to overcome barriers to commercial adoption. Artemis Technologies CEO Dr Iain Percy explains that the digital network being created will optimise both transport and energy use. For commuters, this means buses arriving at the right time.
For the energy sector, it means the network will direct boats to take power when the wind is blowing strongly and prevent unnecessary use when the wind is weak, potentially lowering energy prices.
This initiative is part of the second project funded from a £30m allocation to the Belfast-Derry Innovation Corridor. Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald highlighted that the project will focus on matching the energy supply with the harbour's demands, a significant energy user. She emphasized Northern Ireland's leadership in this area, describing the investment as highly beneficial.
The project's findings could have broader applications across Northern Ireland. Artemis Technologies CEO Dr Percy stated that the network's capabilities can be replicated elsewhere, with initial support from Foyle Port and other regions in Northern Ireland.
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