The maritime sector is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, and ports are central to both the challenge and the solution. As international trade and shipping volumes are projected to increase significantly by 2050, the environmental impact of ports will intensify unless effective measures are implemented. While many ports are beginning to adopt renewable energy technologies (RETs), there is a lack of comprehensive, comparative research on which technologies. There is a particular research gap regarding wind and solar, which are most suitable for port environments in terms of efficiency, sustainability, and compatibility with local biodiversity.
This project focuses on the Northwest region, where ports are uniquely positioned to harness wind and solar energy. However, the optimal approach for balancing energy generation with environmental stewardship and regional development remains unclear. Multi-disciplinary collaboration is essential to address these complex challenges, yet policy frameworks to support such collaboration are underdeveloped.
This research will systematically evaluate wind and solar RETs for port applications, with a focus on developing policy frameworks that enable effective collaboration between stakeholders from engineering, environmental science, policy, and industry. The project aims to identify which technologies and collaborative approaches are most effective for reducing emissions, supporting biodiversity, and advancing the UK government’s net zero targets.
By providing evidence-based recommendations, this work will guide policy and investment decisions, ensuring that ports in the Northwest can transition to sustainable energy in a way that benefits both the environment and the regional economy. The outcomes will help position the region as a leader in sustainable maritime energy development and contribute to broader climate change mitigation efforts.
