Energy study brings Port of London Authority one step closer to Net Zero goals

UK Power Networks Services is supporting the Port of London Authority’s (PLA) sustainability ambitions by successfully completing an energy feasibility study to identify opportunities to integrate low-carbon generation technologies across its sites and floating structures.

The PLA is aiming for a 60% reduction in carbon emissions by 2025 and to achieve Net Zero by 2040. To realise these targets, the port requires an understanding of its existing electricity network and renewable generation opportunities available.

The project has assessed the suitability for renewable energy installation, including solar and wind, at 23 of the ports’ sites and provides insight into future demand within the electricity network as the port expands.

The introduction of renewable energy technologies will enable the future decarbonisation of the vessels and provide low-carbon energy sources that will help the port meet their Net Zero aspirations, eliminate emissions and increase the resilience of the port’s electricity network.

The PLA will now be able to make informed decisions about future expansion and sustainability initiatives with visibility of their existing electricity network and viability of specific renewable technologies.

Kieran Coughlan, Head of Strategic Advisory Services at UK Power Networks Services said: “We’re thrilled to be able to help the PLA develop their future decarbonisation journey through the assessment of options for integrating renewable technologies.

“This feasibility study will enable the port to make key sustainability and expansion decisions that support their operations.”

Michael Atkins, Senior Planner at the PLA, added: “As a result of this study, we are now able to identify various options for the delivery of low carbon generation technologies across a number of our sites, which will help to meet our aim to achieve Net Zero by 2040 and help to increase energy resilience and reduce emissions across the PLAs estate and operations.”