Port of Aberdeen invests £55m into net-zero port target
The Port of Aberdeen has announced plans to invest £55m in the next decade to become a net-zero port by 2040.
The port is aiming for Scope 3 emissions from vessels visiting the port and the port’s own operations under Scope 1 and 2 to be included in its goals.
Its net-zero strategy focuses on collaborating with stakeholders across the private and public sectors to reduce emissions in the port, facilitate future low carbon fuels and support the energy transition.
Progress will be tracked across a 2019 baseline with 55,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent emitted across scope 1, 2, and 3. Some 97% of emissions were attributed to 9,500 vessel arrivals – recorded as scope 3.
The port will also measure performance against a carbon intensity metric based on gross vessel tonnage, once the new Aberdeen South Harbour development has been fully operational for 12 months.
Low carbon alternative fuels and shore power will be used to reduce emissions in the future with current projects including the roll-out of electric vehicles and installation of LED lighting on the quaysides. A trial of hydrotreated vegetable oil for port-owned vessels and equipment and exploring the feasibility of onsite energy generation for the port estate are also being undertaken.
Bob Sanguinetti, Chief Executive, Port of Aberdeen, said: “Strong partnerships and investment across the public and private sectors are essential to deliver this transformational change which will deliver significant benefits for the environment, local communities, and wider maritime sector.”
“Our vision is to become Scotland’s premier net zero port, offering world class facilities and services, at the heart of the nation’s energy transition. We must be bold and ambitious to achieve this. Port of Aberdeen can play a pivotal role in the emergence of green economic growth in the wider maritime industry and support new, high-quality jobs.”
Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition Mairi McAllan said: “The Scottish Government is committed to the decarbonisation of the transport sector in a sustainable way, and the maritime sector has a vital role to play. An efficient and effective offshore energy sector is crucial for a robust economy, and our work to decarbonise the maritime sector will take account of the critical importance of this sector in our supply infrastructure.”
Naveed Qamar, Head of Safety, Health, Environment & Quality at the port, said: “Aberdeen has a leading role to play in the UK maritime industry’s path to net zero. All the major energy operator and supply chain companies are on our doorstep, and we have a common goal – reducing emissions and achieving net zero. There is a long way to go in delivering our 2040 ambition but I’m confident we can deliver it through our net zero strategy.”
Image courtesy of Port of Aberdeen
