Montrose Port Authority (MPA) has made significant strides in reducing emissions by launching Scotland’s first shore power service for offshore energy supply vessels.
The facility, named Plug Montrose, is the result of a £1 million investment and collaboration with Plug Shore Power Ltd, marking MPA’s commitment to carbon neutrality. Shore power allows vessels to connect to the grid while in port, eliminating the need to run engines and reducing emissions, fuel consumption, and noise pollution. The inaugural connection was made by the Norwegian vessel, Magne Viking.
The decision to invest in shore power stems from MPA’s dedication to reducing scope 3 emissions and meeting its goal of becoming Scotland’s first carbon-neutral port. The facility, operational on berths 1 and 2, follows substantial upgrades to the port’s infrastructure by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN).
During the 2023 GREEN4SEA Athens Forum, Theodosia Digalaki, Technical Product Manager, ERMA FIRST, presented the following benefits of shore power:
- Causes significant reduction of air emissions (SOx, NOx, PM) and improves port’s microclimate
- Reduction of greenhouse gases when used in combination with Renewable Energy Sources
- Raise in oil price has led shipowners seek alternative power sources
- Elimination of noise and vibration improves working conditions for seafarers
- Enabling maintenance of auxiliary engines while idle, extension of life of auxiliary gens and reduction of maintenance costs
MPA’s CEO, Tom Hutchison, expressed pride in this milestone, highlighting its transformative impact on both the port and the wider maritime industry. Maria Bos, CEO of Plug, emphasized the collaborative effort and the facility’s positive environmental impact.
Meanwhile, Mark Wilson of Offshore Energies UK praised the initiative as a testament to supply chain-led innovation in driving carbon reduction. Furthermore, Cabinet Secretary Màiri McAllan underscored the significance of such initiatives for Scotland’s transition to renewables and its journey towards net zero emissions, benefitting both the economy and the local community in Montrose.
