The United Kingdom will roll out an Innovation Hub in April 2026, managed by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and introduced as part of the Department for Transport’s maritime decarbonization strategy earlier this year. The facility is designed to support ship operators, builders, start-ups, and technology providers in advancing ideas and bringing them into operational practice.
The government explained that the hub will guide companies developing autonomy systems, sustainable fuels, or smart shipping technologies through the regulatory process, moving projects from prototype to sea trials. The intention is to ensure innovators can build the evidence required for approval under frameworks such as MGN 664, MGN 550, and the Workboat Code Edition 3. Authorities further highlighted that account management services will be made available to reduce complexity and cut down on administrative requirements, while early engagement with regulators is expected to limit risk and accelerate timelines for deploying new maritime solutions.
“With the Innovation Hub, we’re strengthening our support for innovators to bring the latest technologies and findings to our shores. We are currently building a workforce to help navigate the route to approval while upholding safety and regulatory standards. We cannot wait to see the potential it unlocks, not just for the UK but on an international scale,” Lars Lippuner, MCA Director of UK Customer Maritime Services, said.
The UK has been working to secure a stronger role in clean energy and green shipping. In mid-September, the government confirmed that more than £1.1 billion (around $1.49 billion) in combined public and private funding will flow into the maritime sector, targeting engineering, construction, and green technology. Of that, £448 million is allocated to the UK SHORE program to support research and development of low-emission shipping technologies and alternative fuels, including electric propulsion, hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, and wind power. UK SHORE has already invested £240 million across more than 200 projects nationwide, with the sixth round of the scheme launched in January and the winning projects announced in July.
