Using wind and hydrogen to achieve net zero

A cornerstone of Forth Ports’ strategy is its substantial investment in infrastructure, port services and towage to support the build out of the UK’s renewable energy sector, including offshore wind.

“Our ambitious vision reflects our dedication to environmental stewardship and our crucial role in supporting the UK move towards a decarbonised economy for the generations of the future,” said Charles Hammond OBE, group chief executive of Forth Ports.

“Our existing major investment in green energy, coupled with our commitment to floating wind, the next generation of renewable energy and our collaborative approach underscore our determination to play our part in driving the transition to a decarbonised economy to achieve meaningful and lasting environmental change.”

Private investment

A private investment programme, totalling GB£150 million, has already provided crucial support to offshore wind development with the creation of bespoke renewables hubs in Dundee and in Leith to be part of the offshore wind revolution in the North Sea.

This investment not only facilitates the transition to net zero but also lays the groundwork for emerging technologies such as floating offshore wind (FLOW) and green hydrogen. In recent months, the group has unveiled plans for green hydrogen production facilities at the Port of Tilbury.

For mobile equipment and the marine fleet, the strategy is to blend and utilise alternative fuels. Initially this involves the widespread use of sustainably sourced hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO) and, as technology develops, other methods of low emission power. 

The group is also focused on delivering low carbon logistics and large-scale port infrastructure to support green energy generation. The group has overhauled its rail offering by investing heavily in four of its rail terminals, at Tilbury, Tilbury2 and Grangemouth, alongside progressing the reinstatement of a rail connection to Rosyth.

Forth Ports is part of the Thames Freeport and Forth Green Freeport partnerships which are seeking to accelerate the drive to net zero across the country.