Maritime innovation will be a focal point at the inaugural Solent Coastal Powerhouse Summit.
The event, organised by Maritime UK Solent, in collaboration with Associated British Ports (ABP) and Carnival UK, will take place on Wednesday, March 26 and Thursday, March 27 at ABP’s Ocean Terminal in Southampton.
Industry leaders will showcase the latest advancements in maritime technology and sustainability.
The programme will provide insights into developments shaping the future of the maritime sector.
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Chris Shirling-Rooke, chief executive of Maritime UK, said: "The Coastal Powerhouse Conference is a fantastic opportunity to champion the vital role our coastal communities play in driving the UK’s maritime economy."
The first day of the summit will feature sessions on clean and autonomous maritime, led by industry experts Jamie Holmes and Dan Hook.
There will also be a panel discussion on port sustainability, led by ABP.
The afternoon will focus on ABP’s Energy Ventures Accelerator (EVA), with an ‘EVA Southampton Innovation Exchange’ session.
This will include keynote speeches, a panel discussion and start-up pitches addressing sustainability challenges in the sector.
Max Harris, group head of strategy and sustainability at ABP, said: "Our EVA Innovation Exchange will explore maritime decarbonisation through the lens of innovation, with access to a range of deep industry experts from Wallenius Wilhelmsen, Carnival UK, HMM and Sallaum Lines, as well as showcasing innovative technologies from an exciting line-up of clean tech start-ups."
The second day will feature live demonstrations and expert discussions on people, innovation, trade and investment.
An innovation showcase will include on-the-water demonstrations and presentations from leading maritime innovators.
Stu Baker, managing director of Maritime UK Solent, said: "The Solent Coastal Powerhouse Summit is an unmissable event for anyone involved in the maritime sector.
"The Solent region is at the forefront of maritime innovation and this event will highlight the cutting-edge solutions that are driving the industry forward."
Tickets for the event are available now, with an early bird discount until Friday, March 14.
More information can be found on the Maritime UK Solent website.
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