- Second round of the Manchester Prize to strengthen the UK’s drive to become a clean energy superpower with the help of AI
- Support for AI-tools directed to help the UK decarbonise, reduce bills and boost energy security – successful applicants should receive a share of the funding
- The launch is accompanied by discussions on the impact of emerging technologies on the fight against climate change at COP29 Conference
Innovators across the country can today (Tuesday 19 November) support the UK’s efforts to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, as the UK Government advances the use of technology, including AIto provide new clean energy systems.
As the second round of the Manchester Prize launches, teams of UK-based innovators, academics, start-ups and entrepreneurs will be able to apply for funding to develop solutions that will decarbonise the country’s energy network and will strengthen the UK’s 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.
Over the next eight weeks, applicants will be able to come forward to demonstrate how their innovations will boost low-cost energy, reduce energy demand and make energy use more efficient across the country – with the competition being 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 harness technology to better understand future increases in energy demand.
This comes as world leaders gather in Azerbaijan for the COP29 United Nations Climate Change Conference. The use of technology to combat climate change will be high on the agenda, with discussions also focusing on the role of AI in developing new climate solutions, as the UK government moves forward using AI to develop the economy and improve lives.
Minister of AI Feryal Clark said:
AI can transform our public services, make us more productive and tackle some of society’s biggest common challenges. AI is already having a positive impact on many aspects of our lives, but there is still much to be harnessed.
The second series of the Manchester Prize will harness brilliant British innovation to deliver a clean and secure energy future for the UK. Whether in energy, health or beyond, we support AI innovations to bring real and lasting change across the country.
Chief Scientific Advisor to the Department of Energy Security and the Net Zero Program, Professor Paul Monks, said:
The biggest long-term challenge we face is the climate and nature crisis: that’s why we have our global targets to decarbonize the electricity grid by 2030 and reach net zero emissions by 2050.
We need an ambitious approach to the use of artificial intelligence in the development, engineering and operation of our energy systems and so I am pleased to see the Manchester Prize recognize this with its new dedicated cycle to decarbonization.
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 marks a ten-year commitment from the UK to supporting AI innovations that will address some of society’s biggest common challenges, with the first cycle (due to conclude in April next year) focusing on the areas of energy, environment and infrastructure .
As part of Round 2′AI For the Clean Energy Systems focus, the UK government will support up to 10 innovators with £100,000, and a panel of judges will be tasked with narrowing down these 10 finalists to a single winner next year, securing a grand prize million to further support their innovation. .
Increased adoption of AI across the energy sector could not only lead to revolutionary new solutions to tackle the climate crisis, but also lead to lower bills for UK payers and a reduction in our energy demand by ensuring our energy network can be as effective as possible.
Applicants to the second round of the Manchester Prize have until January 17, 2025 to submit their solutions, with a shortlist of ten finalists expected to be confirmed in spring next year.
Notes to editors
The challenge works is a global leader in designing and delivering high-impact challenge prizes that encourage cutting-edge innovation for social good.
It is part of the UK Innovation Foundation Agency Nesta. For over a decade, it has hosted more than 97 awards, distributed more than £210 million in funding and engaged with 16,000 innovators.
Find details about the Manchester Prize and how to apply for the second round here.
