Image: Port of Aberdee
The Port of Aberdeen, has unveiled its state-of-the-art £420 million expansion project. The new harbor, situated adjacent to the Energy Transition Zone, not only solidifies the port’s standing as Scotland’s largest berthage port but also signals a promising future for energy, trade, and tourism in the region’s journey towards net-zero emissions.
The Aberdeen South Harbour expansion project has added an impressive 1.5 kilometers of deepwater berths, boasting a maximum depth of 15 meters. This development grants the port the capacity to host vessels of up to 300 meters in length, significantly enhancing its capabilities. Additionally, the expansion includes 125,000 square meters of flexible project areas and substantial heavy lift capacity.
This ambitious project has garnered recognition under the Scottish Government’s National Planning Framework 4(NPF4), showcasing its importance in the regional development landscape. Independent analyses are now predict a remarkable 50%,to 60% surge in the port’s Gross Value Added contribution, now estimated at an impressive £2.4 billion. Furthermore, job opportunities are set to rise by 45%, or more.
The Port of Aberdeen took a significant step towards self-funding this endeavor, with valuable contributions from the European Investment Bank, Scottish National Investment Bank, Scottish Enterprise, and both Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeenshire Council through the Aberdeen City Region Deal.
Deputy First Minister Shona Robison emphasized the port’s pivotal role in the transition to net zero. “It will be key to helping pivot our economy towards new decarbonised technologies and fuels,” she affirmed, particularly highlighting offshore wind and tidal wave research.
Claire Mack, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, stressed the importance of port infrastructure investment to support the green energy transition. She called for urgent action from both the Scottish and UK Governments to align with Aberdeen’s ambitious vision.
David Whitehouse, CEO of OEUK, hailed the expansion as a crucial stride towards a net-zero economy. “This expansion will allow our world-class energy industry to take on new projects and spark crucial investment in the North Sea for decades to come,” he declared.
The Port of Aberdeen is steadfast in its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions from vessels and its own operations by 2040. With a £55 million investment earmarked over the next decade, the port aims to become the UK’s first net-zero port, setting an example for sustainable maritime practices.
The introduction of shore power at scale and the facilitation of low carbon alternative fuels for client vessels are anticipated to deliver substantial reductions in emissions in the years ahead.
