Innovative Use of Green Hydrogen for Clean Shore Power at Port of Leith
Key Ideas
  • A consortium in the UK has demonstrated how green hydrogen can be used to provide clean shore power for vessels at Scotland's Port of Leith.
  • Green hydrogen was produced using an electrolyser powered by renewable electricity, offering advantages such as energy storage and flexibility in power generation.
  • The project, funded by the UK government, aims to support innovative solutions for decarbonizing the maritime sector through the use of green hydrogen.
  • Collaboration among companies like Forth Ports, Targe Towing, Logan Energy, PlusZero, and Waterwhelm is key to the success of this sustainable initiative.
A consortium led by Innovate UK and the UK Department for Transport has successfully demonstrated the utilization of green hydrogen to generate clean shore power for vessels at the Port of Leith in Scotland. This innovative project showcased the use of onshore generators powered by green hydrogen to produce electricity for tugboats while they are berthed, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional power sources. The green hydrogen was produced using an electrolyser from Logan Energy, which was powered by renewable electricity through the process of electrolysis, splitting water into oxygen and hydrogen. The water required for this process was sourced from a nearby wastewater treatment plant after undergoing treatment. While the tugs could directly connect to local renewable electricity capacity, Forth Ports highlighted the various advantages of generating electricity from green hydrogen. This approach allows energy to be stored for later use, offers a flexible power source, and can be scaled or relocated as needed, providing enhanced efficiency and reliability. According to a spokesperson from Forth Ports, green hydrogen production during off-peak times when renewable electricity is abundant enables grid balancing and ensures a consistent power supply even when renewable sources are not actively generating electricity. The project, supported by the UK government's Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition, aims to promote innovative solutions for decarbonizing the maritime sector by integrating green hydrogen technologies. Companies such as Forth Ports, Targe Towing, Logan Energy, PlusZero, and Waterwhelm are actively involved in this collaborative initiative, emphasizing the importance of industry partnerships in driving sustainable practices within the maritime industry.
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