City College Plymouth selected for innovative maritime project

@CityPlym is delighted to announce it has been selected to take part in an innovative project that aims to support the maritime sector as it works towards a greener and more sustainable future. 

Supported by the Department for Transport, Maritime Research and Innovation UK (MarRI-UK) has invited the College to take part in an initiative to develop new green technology that will help the UK realise its vision of zero-emission shipping in line with the Government’s Marine 2050 plan.

The College is one of 11 organisations that is to receive a share of £1.5million to help with the development of this cutting-edge technology, which will also provide the sector with a huge boost as it emerges for the COVID-19 pandemic. 

College students studying marine autonomy, engineering and computing will work together in teams to deliver this project. 

Lead on Marine Autonomous Vehicles at City College Plymouth, Martin Boulter said: “This is a huge opportunity for our students to be exposed to creative, innovative marine technology by bringing together low-carbon propulsion with marine autonomous vehicles. It is fantastic to be working with our marine sector industrial partners who are looking to work with us to commercialise the findings of this project.”

The College will receive a total of £52,334.59 that will go towards testing a range of marine hybrid power and propulsion systems, finding credible, creative solutions to enhance our maritime sector and supporting regional, green growth. 

Other organisations selected for this project include the University of Plymouth, Solent University and the University of Liverpool. 

John Howie MBE, Chairman of MarRI-UK, said:

“The 11 successful projects are great examples of UK technology and innovation, helping the UK maritime sector meet the challenges and goals set out in the Maritime 2050 vision.”

City College Plymouth, which is part of the recently formed South West Institute of Technology, has a new strategic plan with a vision of playing a key role in the development of this vital industry. The College offers a number of university-level courses, including a brand-new Foundation Degree in Marine Autonomous Vehicles, which will equip the current and future workforce with the knowledge and skills to propel local blue-tech employers.