Innovators from across the country can support the UK’s clean energy future as the government pushes forward the use of technology, including AI, to deliver net zero by 2050.
Launching the second round of the Manchester Prize, teams of innovators, academics, start-ups, and entrepreneurs based in the UK will be able to apply for funding to develop solutions that will decarbonise the UK’s energy grid and boost energy security.
These innovations could prove crucial in the coming years to support the government’s broader mission of transforming the UK into a clean energy superpower.
New tech avenues for boosting the UK’s clean energy supply
Over the next eight weeks, applicants can come forward to demonstrate how their innovations will boost the UK’s clean energy infrastructure, reduce energy demand and make energy use more efficient across the country.
The competition is also extended to solutions from around the world that partner with a leading UK-based organisation.
These could include new avenues for boosting the power generated by wind and solar farms, using AI to increase energy efficiency in our homes and businesses, and tapping into the technology to build up a better understanding of future spikes in energy demand.
It comes as global leaders gather in Azerbaijan for the COP29 UN Climate Change Conference.
The use of technology in tackling climate change will feature heavily on the agenda. Talks will also cover the role of AI in developing new climate solutions as the UK Government powers ahead with using AI to grow the economy and improve lives.
Minister for AI Feryal Clark said: “AI can transform our public services, make us more productive and tackle some of the biggest shared challenges in society.
“The second round of the Manchester Prize will bring brilliant British innovation to bear to deliver the UK’s clean energy future. Whether in energy, healthcare, or beyond, we’re backing AI innovations to deliver real and 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 for Science, Innovation, and Technology and is being delivered in partnership with Challenge Works. It marks a decade-long commitment for the UK to support AI innovations that will tackle some of society’s biggest shared challenges. Round 1 (due to finish in April of next year) will focus on energy, environment, and infrastructure.
As part of Round 2’s focus on AI for Clean Energy Systems, the UK government will support up to ten innovators with £100,000. A panel of judges will whittle down these ten finalists to one winner next year, securing a £1m grand prize to further support their innovation.
Increased adoption of AI across the energy sector could not only lead to ground-breaking new solutions to tackle the climate crisis but also lower bills for British billpayers and reduce our energy demand by ensuring our energy network can be at its most efficient.
Applicants for Round 2 of the Manchester Prize must submit their solutions by 17 January 2025. A shortlist of ten finalists will be confirmed in the spring of next year.
