The University of Brighton has launched a new research project with Newhaven Port to explore how renewable energy can cut shipping emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Called GREENPORTSIDE, the initiative will assess how renewable electricity can support ships and port operations in ways that are both technically feasible and economically viable.
With 95% of our imports arriving by sea, the maritime industry is vital to the economy but remains a significant carbon emitter, producing 5 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent in 2019 – the same as more than one million cars.
Researchers will investigate solutions ranging from shore power – enabling ships to plug into clean electricity while docked – to more ambitious options such as generating renewable electricity onsite to power port operations and provide fast-charging for battery-electric vessels.
Dr Cliff Dansoh, Senior Lecturer at the University of Brighton, said: “GREENPORTSIDE is an exciting opportunity to explore realistic ways for ports to decarbonise. By combining engineering research with practical economic analysis, we hope to show how ports can reduce emissions while continuing to operate efficiently.”
Funded by Innovate UK and the Department for Transport, the project highlights how regional collaboration can support the UK’s wider net zero ambitions while making Newhaven a model for sustainable port operations.
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