A new type of ship is being planned for carrying smaller payloads, with a demonstration from Aberdeen to Orkney and Shetland planned for later in 2024. It’ll be a world first, powered by liquid hydrogen and uncrewed, with AI and robot systems looking after the sailing.

It’ll be built by a consortium, led by Acua Ocean, which develops uncrewed vessels to monitor wind farms, marine biodioversity and ports. The company’s chief operating officer, Mike Tinmouth, describes the technology involved and the risks and opportunities of autonomous systems; and what it means for local services and communities.

Through special arrangements, admission is free, and we would ask everyone who books to let us know if for any reason they are unable to turn up, so that we can make the space available for others who may be on a waiting list.

Tickets can be booked through this LINK.

The venue is the Lecture Theatre in the Robert Rendall Building at the Orkney Research and Innovation Campus. The building is on the site of the former primary school, with parking available at the old academy site nearby. Further details of the venue are in a site map online.

Hosted by Orkney Renewable Energy Forum. This event is open to all, with free admission, and booking essential. It can also be accessed online via Zoom by contacting office@oref.co.uk, free to OREF members, £3 for non-members. For more information, including how to become a member of OREF, visit the OREF website.