Marine South East launches the ‘MEREX’ Knowledge Network
The new Marine Energy Resources, Exploitation & Use (MEREX) Knowledge Network has been launched to foster new collaborations between the knowledge base and businesses in South East England.
As part of SEEDA's Knowledge Network Programme (KNP), MEREX will bring together universities, research establishments, regulatory bodies and businesses to exploit research opportunities and catalyse collaboration. The primary aim of the network is to turn knowledge into commercially successful products and services. MEREX will help members secure additional project funding by assisting with partnership building and bid development.
The KNP currently supports 7 networks, each focused on specific priority technologies. The networks work together to identify cross-sectoral opportunities and enable creative environments in which lateral thinking and challenge is promoted.
MEREX will facilitate 'Industry Groups' to explore the feasibility of novel developments in three growth markets:
1. Hybrid marine propulsion & auxiliary systems benefiting from use of renewable energy resources (to help meet 10% renewable energy target for transport by 2020)
2. Port facilities to valorise waste streams and other renewable resources to reduce energy consumption and emissions around ports
3. Ship decision-support & data assimilation systems to minimise fuel use and optimise operation of wind-assisted propulsion
Led by companies operating in the relevant markets and involving others present in the value chain, the groups will be tasked with identifying market drivers and defining commercially realistic business models to exploit them.
Marine South East will facilitate engagement with relevant science base organisations in order to:
- Define state-of-the-art in key capabilities under each market topic
- Identify gaps in technology or knowledge base
- Explore possible funding channels to address technology/knowledge gaps
- Initiate development of collaborative bids
For more information contact Simon Powell on 023 80 111 592 or email simon@marinesoutheast.co.uk
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