Belfast Harbour is set to become a live test environment for next-generation zero-emission technologies following a £15m investment confirmed by Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald.

The funding comes from UK Research and Innovation's (UKRI) Local Innovation Partnerships Fund (LIPF) and is the second project to be launched from the £30m allocation to the Belfast–Derry Innovation Corridor.

The Zero Emissions Transport and Energy Cluster (ZETEC), led by Artemis Technologies, will link electric vessels, high-power marine charging, autonomous transport and energy systems using secure digital twin technology.

Running these technologies together in an operational port will provide evidence on how they work as a single system and help remove barriers to commercial rollout.

Minister Archibald said: "This £15m investment is a significant boost for our growing zero-emission transport and energy sector. By bringing together expertise in advanced manufacturing, clean energy, digital technologies and cyber security, ZETEC will help turn cutting-edge innovation into practical, commercially viable solutions.

-- Advertisement --

"Supporting innovation and accelerating the development of new technologies is central to building a more productive and sustainable economy, creating new economic opportunities and strengthening our position in these important industries."

LIPF is a central pillar of the British government's commitment to achieve growth in every postcode. It unites local leaders, businesses and research organisations to build on regional strengths, create jobs, drive innovation-led productivity and attract further public and private investment into communities across the UK.

UKRI Chief Executive Professor Sir Ian Chapman said: "ZETEC is a critical Local Innovation Partnerships Fund project in Northern Ireland to bring clean transport to market faster by reducing risks and supporting the adoption of electric and autonomous technologies.

"This builds on local strengths and knowledge to advance knowledge, improve lives and drive growth."

Dr Iain Percy OBE, CEO of Artemis Technologies commented: "We've always focused on turning innovative technologies into practical solutions that deliver real-world impact.

"Through ZETEC, we're collaborating with leading partners to demonstrate how electric vessels, charging infrastructure and digital technologies can work together to support the transition to cleaner, more efficient transport"

Artemis Technologies leads the project, with delivery partners including Belfast Harbour, Digital Catapult/UK Digital Twin Centre, the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre and the Centre for Secure Information Technologies.