Public Funding for Royston Limited

The main motivation of this project stems from the urgency to reduce the current dependency of the UK maritime sector on fossil fuels, thereby reducing the generation of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Although a slow transition towards alternative fuels has been triggered, maritime transport, including cross river ferry operation, still depends heavily on fossil fuel combustion, which contributes to and creates significant challenges with regard to air pollution and climate change. This is the case with the Shields Ferry service. Advances in knowledge and state-of-the-art technology related not just to clean propulsion systems but also accurate data collection used by Newcastle University provides a unique opportunity for this regional partnership to combine their respective know-how to transform the carbon footprint of the ferry service which can be shared with other similar services elsewhere in the Country, maximising its impact. CLEANFERRY aims to define and develop a detailed technology route map for the Shields Ferry service based on data intelligence, innovative solutions and energy-efficient operational strategies for the transition to a carbon-free proposition. As part of this process, the project will develop a detailed energy flow architecture for the existing ferry service as a backbone for transition towards a proof of concept for carbon free propulsion system and associated operational innovations. This process pursues fulfilling Nexus' 2025 vision and strategy for this essential service for the North and South Tyneside communities.

To develop an enhanced e-marketing ability, driven by an understanding and use of data analytics, to incorporate co-branding and co-creation enabling Royston to develop an optimal marketing strategy working in partnership with their stakeholders.

The Project relates to the remote monitoring of energy usage on vessels by the use of sensor technology applied to major energy providers (power sources); and users (propulsion system; operating equipment; and hotel load (electricity generated and used aboard a ship for purposes such as lighting, communications, climate control etc). The aim is to provide a complete understanding of major energy flows to enable the vessel operator to focus upon incremental savings of energy (and emissions) via improvements in Key Performance Indicators “KPIs”. A system will be developed to give easily understood graphical KPIs to the crew on the vessel and to the operational team remotely by satellite transmission of data in real time; so effective decisions can be taken. In addition, the data will provide a baseline for KPI improvement; incorporating information received from the vessel, advice and guidance from the vessel operators management in respect of priorities and safety issues, and support from the system provider in respect of new products or services which can aid efficiency. The Project will progress in steps from small vessels, to more complex offshore and then passenger vessels.

To use statistical and data mining techniques to facilitate the further development and enhancement of the company’s Engine monitoring system.

To develop new products and services by creating a team focused on innovating and commercialising new concepts initially linked to engine, fuel and emissions management.