Aberdeen Harbour has announced it will be working with BP to identify and develop projects that could reduce emissions and lower air and noise pollution from vessels calling at the port.
Both parties have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) agreeing to this collaboration which will explore opportunities in service of the port’s net-zero ambitions, including the potential for:
- A pilot project to supply shore power (quayside electrification) allowing vessels to turn off main engines while in port to reduce emissions and noise.
- Supply of a net or low-carbon power supply to all vessels in port, over time.
- Exploring the use of hydrogen as a clean marine fuel.
- Helping to position the harbour to support offshore wind development and their associated operations and maintenance phase.
For BP, the agreement aims to build upon its partnership with Aberdeen City Council, which seeks to help the local authority achieve its net-zero strategic infrastructure plan and vision to become a climate positive city.
“This collaboration with BP comes at a significant time for Aberdeen Harbour, and combined with our multi-million-pound investments into our infrastructure and established three-stranded Green Port strategy, propels us into being Scotland’s leading port for energy transition,” said Bob Sanguinetti, Chief Executive of Aberdeen Harbour Board.
“Reducing emissions from vessels berthed in the port and providing low carbon power supplies will be critical to achieving a green maritime industry and requires innovative thinking and practices.
“We look forward to working with BP and our stakeholders to further realise net-zero ambitions, combine our expertise and ultimately bring prosperity to the north-east of Scotland and the wider maritime and energy industry.”
Emeka Emembolu, North Sea Senior Vice President for BP, added “For nearly 30 years, Aberdeen Harbour has provided BP with world-class in support of our North Sea Oil and gas operations. We are delighted to be strengthening that relationship in a way that we believe will help further the net-zero ambitions of both organisations.
“We will be bringing BP’s core skills in solving complex energy problems to a progressive and highly capable port that is uniquely positioned to play an integral part in Scotland’s energy transition.”
Previously, Aberdeen Harbour had received a £161,000 ($208,000) grant to fund a three-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with Robert Gordon University, moving the port a step closer to a “digital transformation”.
