New PIP projects related to the blue economy

The Flemish public sector spends annually over €30 to 40 billion  on public procurement. This creates a lot of opportunities for innovation. Companies play a crucial role in making the most of this potential.

It is important to have the right expertise and know-how in order to innovate. This is not always easy in a governmental context. The Programme for Innovation Procurement makes it easier for public authorities and organisations to call on local companies for this purpose. 

Such public innovation contracts have also been launched within the blue economy. A complete overview of all projects can be found on the official website. Below we will provide more information on two recently launched projects that may be interesting to our members and other companies in the blue economy.

Automatic charging system for electric vessels

Initiator: Agency Maritime Services and Coast - FLEET SMS

The electric ferry ‘Raveel meets Ensor’ in Ostend has an autonomy of approximately three hours of sailing at cruise speed. This means that the ferry needs to recharge several times a day. In heavy swells or bad weather conditions, however, this is not possible. FLEET is therefore looking for an innovative solution to ensure ferry charging in all conditions.

Green Hydrogen hub for pumping station

Initiator: Flanders Environment Agency (VMM)

This project examines whether it is possible to produce green hydrogen with locally generated renewable energy and use that green hydrogen to power critical installations with a high peak energy consumption. (Emergency) power supply to local pumping stations takes priority. A location in the port of Antwerp has been put forward for a pilot.

The Programme for Innovation Procurement (PIP) was created to encourage government and public sector actors to focus more on innovation. The aim is to achieve a high-performance government, competitive enterprises and solutions to societal challenges. 

Innovation procurement is also very interesting to companies. It gives entrepreneurs a better idea of the public innovation needs, frees up more financial means for R&D and testing activities, creates new possibilities to bridge the gap between product development and marketing, and gives SMEs and start-ups more access to public markets. 

Whether or not a specific project is eligible for co-financing is determined on the basis of the results of a market consultation. The Flemish Government bears up to 50% of the total cost of innovative solutions. This can range from €25,000 to 1 million.