Portsmouth Port sets out comprehensive net-zero plan

As part of the government’s Maritime 2050 strategy, Portsmouth Port has set out a comprehensive plan which will enable them to become first carbon-neutral UK port by 2030.

The plan, which was approved by Portsmouth City Council, outlines how various initiatives such as maximising the use of solar panels and using battery storage technology could provide around 60% of the port’s electricity requirements by 2030.

The port will also introduce fast electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at the terminal building and will replace any diesel vehicles at the port with electric equivalents.

The port is also planning to install air quality sensors across the site, which they have said will then be used to inform port operations so that air pollution can be reduced at peak times.

In addition, according to the port, a number of their customers are investing in new ships that are lower in emissions.

The plan will now be submitted to the Department for Transport for formal approval.

Mike Sellers, port director at Portsmouth International Port said: ‘Despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, we’ve still been working hard to ensure we prepare for a green recovery here at the port.

‘We need to take bold action if we’re to meet our goal to be the UK’s first zero-emission port, and play our part in tackling this pressing issue.’

Cllr Dave Ashmore, cabinet member for Environment and Climate Change, said: ‘We’ve been clear in our plans to combat climate change, with energy-saving projects at the council already delivering 250 tonnes of carbon savings a year.

‘It is also important we do all that we can do to improve air quality in Portsmouth, as polluted air impacts everyone’s health. This ambitious plan demonstrates the ambition of the port and the entire city to take this issue seriously, driving down emissions and improving the quality of life for our residents.’

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