Boosting the UKs energy transition in port
The Lowestoft Eastern Energy Facility (LEEF), a GB£35 million port infrastructure project by Associated British Ports (ABP) has been officially opened by the UK Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband.
Designed to support operations and maintenance for the offshore energy industry, LEEF features expanded quay space, deep-water berthing, and modern connectivity for bunkering, water and electricity.
“Ports are a crucial foundation for delivering the energy transition while securing investments and jobs. LEEF showcases our commitment to sustainability and innovation,” said Henrik Pedersen, CEO of ABP.
Clean energy hub
Operational since September 2024, the facility underpins Lowestoft’s role as a leader in clean energy, creating local jobs and driving economic growth.
Mr Miliband praised the investment, calling it a “huge vote of confidence” in the UK’s drive to become a clean energy superpower.
During his visit, Mr Miliband toured North Star’s hybrid-electric service vessel Grampian Tweed, designed to support Equinor’s Dogger Bank offshore windfarm and ScottishPower Renewables’ control hub for the East Anglia ONE windfarm.
Jess Asato, MP for Lowestoft, emphasised the broader benefits: “This investment ensures Lowestoft thrives as a leader in offshore renewables, creating thousands of green energy jobs and securing a brighter future.”
LEEF is part of ABP’s GB£1 billion investment in port infrastructure over five years, positioning the company as a vital enabler in the UK’s transition to net zero.