The Manchester Prize, first announced in the 2023 Spring Budget, returns with a focus on clean energy AI projects. It offers £2m for advancements in AI-driven clean technology innovations.
- This initiative is managed by the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and aims to encourage breakthroughs in decarbonizing the electricity grid.
- The competition is essential for achieving the UK government’s goals of green power by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050.
- Past finalists have showcased significant AI contributions, and this year’s contest extends the opportunity to UK-led teams, including international collaborators.
- Application submissions close by midday on January 17, 2025.
First introduced during the 2023 Spring Budget by Jeremy Hunt, the Manchester Prize is a significant annual event aimed at stimulating AI innovation within the clean technology sector. The British government has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering technological advancements by setting aside £2 million for up to ten projects that leverage artificial intelligence to aid in the decarbonization of the electricity grid.
The contest is spearheaded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology alongside Challenge Works, part of the charity Nesta. By focusing on AI-driven innovations, the government aims to support cost-effective and scalable energy solutions that contribute to its ambitious environmental targets.
The importance of this competition is further emphasized by the UK’s ecological goals: delivering fully green power by 2030 and reaching net zero emissions by 2050. Prof. Paul Monks, Chief Scientific Adviser at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, remarked on the dire need for an assertive AI approach across development, engineering, and operational sectors in energy systems.
The contest requires entrants to demonstrate how AI can facilitate low-cost, scalable clean energy technologies or optimize energy consumption. Feryal Clark, Minister for AI, expressed confidence in British innovation leading the way to a sustainable energy future.
Previous finalists, including projects like Aiolus, AssetScan, and Greyparrot Insight, have highlighted AI’s transformative potential in various applications. With this year’s expanded scope, the Manchester Prize continues to attract forward-thinking contributions from UK-led teams, potentially involving international partners.
Participants have until midday on January 17, 2025, to submit their applications, marking the Manchester Prize as a central platform for pioneering energy solutions.
The Manchester Prize positions itself as a key driver in advancing AI for sustainable energy, aligning with the UK’s environmental aspirations.
