Innovators across the country can support the UK’s clean energy future as the Government advances the use of technology, including AI, to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
Launch of second round of the Manchester Prizeteams of UK-based innovators, academics, start-ups and entrepreneurs will be able to apply for funding to develop solutions that will decarbonise the UK’s energy network and boost energy security.
These innovations could prove crucial in the years to come in supporting the Government’s wider mission to transform the UK into a clean energy superpower.
New technology avenues to boost the UK’s clean energy supply
Over the next eight weeks, applicants will be able to come forward to demonstrate how their innovations will help boost the UK’s clean environment. energy infrastructurereduce energy demand and make energy use more efficient across the country.
The competition is also extended to solutions worldwide in partnership with a leading UK-based organization.
These could include new avenues for increasing the energy produced by wind and solar farms, using AI to increase the energy efficiency of our homes and businesses, and harnessing technology to better understand future increases in energy demand.
It comes as world leaders gather in Azerbaijan for the UN Climate Change Conference COP29.
Using technology to combat climate change will be high on the agenda. Discussions will also focus on the role of AI in developing new climate solutions, as the UK government pushes forward using AI to grow the economy and improve lives.
AI Minister Feryal Clark said: “AI can transform our public services, make us more productive and tackle some of society’s biggest common challenges.
“The second edition of the Manchester Prize will harness brilliant British innovation to secure the UK’s clean energy future. Whether in energy, health or beyond, we support AI innovations to bring real, lasting change across the country.
AI innovations will solve some of our biggest challenges
The Manchester Prize was launched in December 2023 by the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology and is delivered in partnership with Challenge Works. This is the UK’s decade-long commitment to supporting AI innovations that will tackle some of society’s biggest shared challenges. The first cycle (expected to end in April next year) will focus on energy, environment and infrastructure.
As part of the second round focused on AI for clean energy systems, the UK government will support up to ten innovators with £100,000. A panel of judges will select these ten finalists down to one winner next year, securing a grand prize of £1 million to further support their innovation.
Increased adoption of AI in the energy sector could not only lead to revolutionary new solutions to tackle the climate crisis, but also cut bills for UK taxpayers and reduce our demand for energy by ensuring our energy network can be as efficient as possible.
Applicants for the second round of the Manchester Prize must submit their solutions by January 17, 2025. A shortlist of ten finalists will be confirmed in spring next year.
