The Marine Business Technology Centre fund support for new marine technology

29 May 2020

Plymouth-based technology development business Frontier Technical has secured funding which will enable it to access consultancy services from Devon-based specialist suppliers.

The business, which recently relocated to Plymouth Science Park, conducts research and development into economically viable floating offshore wind solutions.

From this month, the finance from Marine Business Technology Centre (MBTC) European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) funding for a £5,000 project

Frontier Technical has developed a new controllable float module system, which enables easy transportation by conventional ISO shipping containers where local infrastructure and human resource is minimal or absent. This technology makes the construction of offshore projects – such as wind turbines – easier, safer and more cost-effective.

Trevor Hardcastle, managing director at Frontier Technical, said:

“We moved the business to Plymouth at the end of 2019 to help us access the region’s expertise in underwater technology and the autonomous control of underwater vehicles. Four months later, we are already seeing benefits far greater than we could have hoped for.”

The MBTC is a partnership led by Plymouth City Council with the University of Plymouth, the University of Exeter, Plymouth Marine Laboratory and the Marine Biological Association.

Councillor Tudor Evans, leader of Plymouth City Council, said:

“The MBTC provides a gateway for local marine businesses to access comprehensive research and development support as well as cutting-edge facilities and expertise, all free of charge.

“Our aim is to help business get ahead, just as we’re doing here with the support being given to Frontier Technical to aid the production of these innovative marine solutions.”