Using space-based technology to predict and monitor blue-green algal blooms

UK Space Agency (UKSA), in collaboration with NI Space and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), is seeking potential remote sensing solutions to predict, detect and monitor the extent and movement of the Blue Green Algae in Lough Neagh.

Background

Lough Neagh and other waterways in Northern Ireland, and more widely, have been experiencing significant seasonal algal blooms. The factors that resulted in these unprecedented blooms are:

• Pollution – excess phosphorus and nitrogen entering waterways from agriculture, wastewater treatment works, domestic systems, and industry
• Climate change – resulting in record high water temperature
• Invasive species – zebra mussels causing increasing water clarity

The Lough Neagh report published in July 2024 outlines a range of measures required to address the problem of blue-green algae in the Lough. These actions are structured around 4 pillars (Education, Investment, Regulation, and Enforcement).

Preventative measures including reducing nutrient inputs from catchments will require long-term solutions. However, monitoring is required to address current questions of bloom development and extent.

Proposed solutions are expected to provide a remote sensing solution to the prediction, early detection, monitoring, and movement of blue-green algae in Lough Neagh and other water bodies in Northern Ireland. We are particularly interested in proposals from organisations that can combine terrestrial data and services (e.g. AI, quantum, machine learning, drones, geospatial data) with satellite data and services, and can provide analysis to derive value-added insights, to develop innovative solutions for customers.

Phase 1 is intended to demonstrate the technical feasibility of a proposed concept and its viability as a solution for UKSA, DAERA, and NI Space. UKSA reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to extend from Phase 1 with successful bidders as part of this pre-commercial procurement.

Large algal blooms are generally seasonal (Spring/Summer) and therefore the window of opportunity to test solutions may be reduced. However, it is likely that there will be blue green algae blooms present in different locations throughout most of the year. Phase 1 will run until March 2025 with a potential call for a Phase 2 in the 2025-2026 financial year.

Critical success factors

• Be able to demonstrate accuracy at scale.
• Be able to provide accuracy in the range of weather and environmental conditions in Northern Ireland.
• Be focused on Lough Neagh but demonstrate potential for use in other Northern Ireland and UK waterways.
• Work within DAERA and NI Space financial and wider resourcing limitations.

Eligibility

This SBRI competition (being run under the Contracts for Innovation process) is open to all eligible organisations, registered in the UK, EU and the European Economic Area, that can demonstrate a route to market for their solution. Contracts will be awarded to a single legal entity only. However, if you can justify subcontracting components of the work, you can engage specialists or advisers.

Funding available

This competition has a total budget of £360,000 (including VAT) for SBRI Phase 1 work. It is anticipated that three bidders will be selected; each of the successful bidders will receive an amount in accordance with their bid, but subject to a maximum amount per bidder of 3 suppliers to the value of £120,000 (inclusive of VAT).

Briefing event and questions

A briefing webinar was held on Monday 21st October 2024 9.30am – 11.00am. A recording may be available at a future date.

Clarifications in relation to this Challenge must be submitted by Friday 25th October (5pm UTC) and can be submitted using the following link: Submit Clarification.