A new report is calling for changes to allow Scotland’s ports to become major clean electricity centres.
The paper, by specialist grid connections consultancy Roadnight Taylor, examines the changing electricity requirements of Scottish ports as they support offshore wind manufacturing and assembly, industrial electrification and maritime decarbonisation.
They used interviews with representatives of 12 Scottish ports and harbours as the basis of their research, finding that ports have distinct electricity needs due to the variety of existing operations from each.
They say that industrial growth is a major driver of this demand, specifically with energy-adjacent projects, as offshore wind manufacturing and assembly are among the activities driving ports’ changing needs.
The consultancy recommend embedding ports in strategic energy planning, speeding up grid consents and connections (by setting clearer application routes) and improving coordination and cost certainty.
Angela Hepworth, CEO of Scottish Renewables, said: “Scotland’s ports and harbours have already invested substantially in the infrastructure and capability needed to deliver our offshore wind potential. Consenting delays now risk holding back manufacturing investment and skilled jobs in coastal communities.
“Ports need secure electricity capacity to attract manufacturers and build on investment already made. National and regional energy plans must accelerate grid consents, coordinate network investment and provide greater certainty on connections.”
The team say they hope that the evidence may lead to ports, other stakeholders, network companies, government and regulators planning next steps together.
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