Published: 23 January 2025 Updated: 29 January 2025

The Business Research and Innovation Initiative (BRII) provides startups and small to medium enterprises (SMEs) with grant funding to develop innovative solutions for government policy and service delivery challenges.

In 2024, FRDC partnered with the Australian Government Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR) to drive innovation and improve energy efficiency in the fisheries and aquaculture sector. 

Each grant is worth up to $100,000. 

About the Challenge

Decarbonising the fishing and aquaculture sector is a significant challenge due to its reliance on fossil fuels, limited space on vessels, strict safety and regulatory requirements and the need for long trips to remote offshore areas. 

Diesel and petrol are the primary sources of greenhouse gas emissions from commercial fishing vessels. These fuels also represent a substantial operational cost, powering essential functions such as navigation, fishing, refrigeration and catch processing. 

While low-carbon alternative fuels and propulsion systems are emerging, they are not yet widely available for commercial use. 

The BRII grants were aimed at initiatives to reduce the carbon intensity and improve the energy efficiency of commercial fishing operations by 30% or more, through innovative and scalable solutions. 

The Hon. Ed Husic MP, Minister for Industry and Science, announced the successful applicants in December 2024. 

Successful applicants:  

Hydrogen Renewable Energy Australia 

Low cost, on-demand hydrogen production to decarbonise fishing operations  

Green hydrogen has the potential to decarbonise fishing and aquaculture industries, however, its adoption has been limited. Hydrogen is difficult to store and transport, with low volumetric density that requires significant storage space. HYREA has developed technology to address these issues by enabling onboard and on-demand hydrogen production. This technology allows the extraction of green hydrogen from sea or fresh-water using a chemical reaction with hydrogen pods. The proposed feasibility study will determine the best types of vessels to house the new technology, compare expected ship performance with traditional diesel-powered ships and with other green fuel alternatives, and provide clarity on costs for market adoption 

 

Stebercraft 

Plug-in Diesel Electric Hybrid Fishing Vessel Design  

The project aims to design a hybrid diesel-electric power and propulsion system for commercial fishing vessels, prioritising fuel efficiency. A hybrid power flow algorithm will be developed that maximises battery use over diesel, whilst ensuring the diesel engine operates within its peak efficiency zone. The modular hybrid system will feature plug-in recharge capabilities when docked, targeting optimal charging times to further reduce operational expenditure. The proposed solution will be suitable for both new and refitment opportunities. It will also meet or exceed the current power requirements for a modern fishing vessel while simultaneously achieving energy efficiency savings greater than 30%. 

 

Hy-Boost Technology  

Fishing vessel Emissions Reductions and Fuel Efficiency  

Hy-Boost Technology has developed a hydrogen co-fire system that can be easily retrofitted to diesel combustion engines. It safely generates hydrogen on demand to assist in the combustion of fuel, reducing harmful emissions & fuel usage. On land-based engines, Hy-Boost produces significant emissions reduction & fuel savings of up to 35%. This project will adapt Hy-Boost’s design for marine use and install it on three vessels. Fuel use and engine emissions data pre & post installation will be monitored to prove efficacy and seek feedback. Outcomes will include measures of emissions reductions, diesel reductions, cost savings and collection of feedback to improve design and achieve proof of concept within marine applications. 

 

Mezo Research 

Mezo Flow Catch Map: Next-gen catch optimisation for sustainable fisheries  

This project will test the technical and commercial feasibility of the Mezo Flow Catch Map, a cutting-edge digital platform designed to revolutionise fisheries management by optimising catch efficiency and enhancing sustainability. Leveraging real-time data analytics, sophisticated mapping and visualisation software, and predictive modelling, the tool will provide actionable insights for precise fishing activities. By reducing search time and fuel consumption, the Mezo Flow Catch Map is aiming to significantly cut operational costs and environmental impacts. The platform will empower fishers with the knowledge to maximise yield while minimising time, effort and bycatch, adhere to regulatory settings and ultimately, promote sustainable practices. 

 

What’s next 

FRDC will support grantees throughout the 4-month feasibility stage by offering guidance and assistance to help ensure the successful completion of their projects and the overall challenge. In the following proof-of-concept stage, one or two grantees from stage one may be awarded $1 million by DISR to further develop and commercialise their product or service.