University of Exeter joins MarRI-UK to boost clean maritime technology

The University of Exeter has joined MarRI-UK as a Tier 1 University Member to accelerate low-carbon technological innovation in the maritime sector.

Exeter is home to the Centre for Future Clean Mobility (CFCM), whose team will bring a wealth of expertise and knowledge, and will help steer the MarRI-UK research agenda and direction.

MarRI-UK is a “collaborative innovation vehicle” for UK industry and academia to jointly tackle innovation and technology challenges.

The University of Exeter established CFCM in 2021 to drive innovation in clean powertrains for various sectors, including maritime.

CFCM director Professor Chris Smith said: “We are delighted to become members of this strategic maritime network and look forward to collaborating with other members in MarRI-UK to enhance the UK’s research and development capabilities in clean propulsion.”

CFCM is at the forefront of global research into clean maritime propulsion solutions and has been working with industry to design and fabricate a zero-emission powertrain demonstrator, funded through the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition.

The centre has a new dynamometer lab which is dedicated to testing and assembling full-scale model maritime powertrains.

Its achievements in the maritime sector so far include:

• The world’s first hybrid fuel cell/battery 300kW powertrain for a work boat
• First in class full design for 1MW workboat clean powertrain
• The first fully electric domestic ferry

The University of Exeter has launched a new business support initiative called Green Futures Solutions to help companies reach net zero, make smarter use of natural resources and seize opportunities in the growing green economy.

Green Futures Solutions provides businesses with access to a unique range of global climate and environment expertise.

To find out more and get in touch, visit greenfuturessolutions.com