The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has announced £1.5 million in funding for a new AI for Decarbonisation programme.
It will initially comprise two streams, with the first worth up to £500,000 for co-funding a new virtual centre of excellence, and the second up to £1 million to support innovation projects on the development AI technologies to reduce carbon emissions.
There are also plans for further funding next year to support priority areas in innovation identified by the centre of excellence.
The programme builds on ideas within the National AI Strategy and will involve projects to enable a faster transition to renewable energy, decarbonise industry by improving energy productivity and fuel switching, and reduce emissions in the agricultural sector.
BEIS said the programme is also expected to boost market growth in the sector reduce the cost of energy.
Transformative impact
Science Minister George Freeman said: “The UK is one of the world’s most advanced AI economies, and AI technology is already having a transformative impact on our economy and society. But there is tremendous potential to do more.
“The AI for Decarbonisation programme offers an exciting opportunity to leverage and develop the UK’s outstanding expertise in the field. Putting this rapidly evolving technology into action will enable us to save energy costs for businesses and households, create high value, skilled jobs, and kickstart millions of pounds of private investment while supporting our net zero targets.”
Applications for funding can be made until 19 January 2023.
