Energy in Ports

As an island nation, ports are critical to the UK’s industrial and commercial activity, accounting for over 95% of the UK’s international trade by volume and forming a key part of the national supply chain. The maritime industry will play a central role in supporting decarbonisation, clean energy and green growth, as the UK works towards its target of net zero emissions by 2050.

The UK Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy sets clear domestic targets, including a 30% reduction in emissions by 2030 and an 80% reduction by 2040, both measured against 2008 levels.

Our marine energy team advises on the delivery of low carbon port energy projects and maritime infrastructure. Our work includes advising on renewable energy projects, energy efficiency measures, shore power projects, offshore wind infrastructure, wave energy and marine disputes arising from these developments. We work closely with port authorities, operators and developers as trusted advisers on complex port based energy projects, bringing a detailed understanding of the commercial, regulatory and operational issues affecting the sector.

Port energy experience

• Advising on the Portsmouth Shoreside Power Project;
• Advising on over £1 billion of energy-related port infrastructure projects;
• Advising a major port authority in relation to a Development Consent Order being promoted on land immediately adjacent to and within the port limits for the construction of a sustainable aviation fuel plant;
• Acting for a major port authority in respect of a strategic private wire power offtake agreement together with leasehold variations, in respect of a strategic and significant solar development;
• Advising a major port authority on consenting route options to create Green Energy Terminals within the port; 
• Advising a harbour authority with a portfolio of ports and harbours in respect of shore power project consenting requirements across its portfolio; and 
• Advising across the full lifecycle of port energy projects, from development and procurement through to operation and dispute resolution.