Green development funding
London-based Uber Boat by Thames Clippers has won funding to support three green river transport research and development (R&D) projects./p>
The river bus operator applied for the UK Government’s Department for Transport (DfT) funding in collaboration with other partners, via the Innovate UK Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition. The projects focus on new power and propulsion technologies and emissions-reducing solutions.
Geoff Symonds, chief operating officer at Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, said: “This funding from the DfT, via Innovate UK, allows us to accelerate our development of a more sustainable future for Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, as well as for a greener marine future for the industry.”
Three innovation-focused projects
The three Clean Maritime projects are: 1. ‘Clipper 2.0: Economical and technical feasibility of decarbonising high-speed public water transport on the River Thames.’
Uber Boat by Thames Clippers currently uses diesel engines. This study will look at the feasibility of integrating fuel cell electric drive systems into the catamaran platform for new catamarans and, retrofitting the existing fleet where possible.
The project will analyse three zero carbon fuel types – compressed hydrogen gas, liquid hydrogen and methanol. Mayfair Marine will act as a hydrogen marine consultant and Class Society DNV will provide regulatory support. Catamaran designers, One2three Naval Architects will also assist.
2. ‘Cross River Zero Emissions Ferry’ aims to position the UK to deliver leading intelligent electric propulsion and power management solutions and provide a pathway to implementation of zero-emission cross river services on the Thames.
In collaboration with BAE Systems, Beckett Rankine and Wight Shipyard Co, this study will look at the relationship between power demand, duty cycle and vessel optimisation for more efficient vessel operation. It will help to develop a clear plan for a future prototype vessel that provides operational data to show clear economic and technological feasibility to achieve Net Zero by 2050.
3. ‘Project HOST (Hydrogen and Oxygen South Thames)’ aims to enable Uber Boat by Thames Clippers to transition from diesel engines to hydrogen fuel cell, batteries and electric motors over the next 10 years.
Working alongside Arup, Shell, National Grid and Wight Shipyard Co, the project aims to accelerate the deployment of other vessels and modes of transport switching to hydrogen through demonstrating a safe, reliable hydrogen supply.
By Rebecca Jeffrey
