AI to fuel UK’s ambition to become a clean energy superpower

The UK Government will award £2m in funding to artificial intelligence (AI) solutions that could help deliver a “clean, secure energy future” for the country.

Innovators from across the country developing solutions which could help decarbonise the energy grid and boost the UK’s energy security, can apply for the funding competition.

Successful innovations will support the journey to net zero and could be “crucial” in the UK’s mission to become a clean energy superpower , the government has said.

The UK Government has pledged to reach net zero by 2050, five years later than the target set by the Scottish Government.

The funding scheme comes as part of the second round of the Manchester Prize, which focuses on clean energy systems. Launched last year, the annual competition supports UK-led breakthroughs in AI for public good. It’s first round supported initiatives that helped tackle challenges in the fields of energy, environment, and infrastructure.

A shortlist of ten finalists is expected to be announced by spring next year, with each receiving a £100,000 fund for their projects. A panel of judges will then select the winner of the competition, who will receive £1m prize.

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. AI is already having a positive impact on so many aspects of our lives, but there’s much more waiting to be tapped into.

“The second round of the Manchester Prize will bring brilliant British innovation to bear to deliver a clean, secure energy future for the UK. Whether in energy, healthcare, or beyond, we’re backing AI innovations to deliver real and lasting change across the country.”

Applicants have until 17 January 2025 to show how their innovation will boost energy efficiency, slash bills, and cut energy demand. International solutions partnering with a lead UK-based organisation are also allowed to submit their projects for consideration.

Chief scientific adviser for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero Professor Paul Monks said: “The greatest long-term challenge we face is the climate and nature crisis: that’s why we have our world leading targets to decarbonise the electricity grid by 2030 and to reach net zero by 2050.

“We need an ambitious approach to using artificial intelligence across the development, engineering and operation of our energy systems and so I am pleased to see the Manchester Prize recognising that with its dedicated new round on decarbonisation.”

The competition launches amid COP29. Taking place in Azerbaijan, the event has seen the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), Pacific Economic Cooperation Council (PECC), and Shanghai Climate Week released launch their first joint annual report on climate tech, outlining how the sector plays a “pivotal role” in “revolutionising” the global supply chain.