The project aligns with the port’s ambition to reach net zero emissions by 2040, aiming to be Scotland’s first to achieve this. Funded by the UK Government in September 2023, it marks Scotland’s first large-scale shore power system for land and vessels. Norway-based OSM Thome’s NS Iona, one of five retrofitted ships, was the first to connect to the system.
The berths are part of the “Shore Power in Operation” demonstrator, supported by the UK Department for Transport’s Zero Emissions, Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) competition, launched in February 2023. ZEVI, with over £80 million in funding, backs 10 projects involving 52 organizations to develop clean maritime solutions.
Since the third quarter of 2024, the port’s “Smart Port” demonstrator has invested £1 million in technology to improve safety, connectivity, and sustainability. The £4 million shore power project could reduce berth emissions by up to 80%, per Bob Sanguinetti, CEO of Port of Aberdeen: “We’re in the business of clean energy, and we’re driving and supporting the energy transition in the North Sea.”
Transport Minister Mike Kane stated: “We have charted a course to zero emission shipping by 2050, and it’s innovative projects like this that will help get us there.” PowerCon’s Peter Selway noted: “Pollution from vessels is a serious—yet often overlooked—environmental and public health issue,” emphasizing that shore power could eliminate 46% of domestic shipping emissions at berth.
The port has also equipped Regent Quay with shore power for Bibby Marine’s electric Service Operation Vessel project, ongoing since the third quarter of 2023, and is finalizing connections for Serco NorthLink’s passenger ferries. Plans are in place to expand green shore power across the port’s 7,600-meter quayside.
