Switching the UK's small-scale fishing fleet to electric or hybrid engines will contribute to the UK's target of net zero by 2050, as well as yield significant savings in operating costs, a new report has found.
The report, Electrifying the Fleet, by the University of Hull, considers the availability of electric and hybrid systems as well as the costs of conversion or implementation and estimates the fuel savings that are possible.
The report says, although technology exists for fishers to switch to a more efficient and sustainable system, current licensing systems which encourage the use of short, wide, fuel-inefficient boats are preventing a green route forward.
It was developed in Collaboration with the RSPB, WWF and Marine Conservation Society (The Future Fisheries Alliance), as well as the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations (NFFO) and North Sea Wildlife Trusts.