Hydrogen Shore Power: The Future of Clean Maritime Energy
Revolutionising Ports with Green Hydrogen
The maritime industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with green hydrogen emerging as a game-changing energy source. A pioneering project at the Port of Leith has achieved a world first, using hydrogen-based shore power to supply electricity to a tugboat—eliminating the need for diesel while docked.
This project, backed by a £535,000 UK Department for Transport grant, demonstrates how collaboration and innovation can drive the maritime sector towards net-zero emissions. With key players including Forth Ports, Waterwhelm, Logan Energy, PlusZero, and Targe Towing, this initiative sets a precedent for sustainable port operations worldwide.
How Hydrogen Shore Power Works
The process of generating zero-emission shore power is both innovative and highly efficient. The project combines advanced water treatment, electrolysis, and hydrogen combustion technology to create a fully integrated green energy system.
1. Water Purification for Hydrogen Production
Waterwhelm provides specialist water treatment technology that converts wastewater into purified water, ensuring a sustainable and renewable source for hydrogen production.
2. Electrolysis to Generate Hydrogen
Logan Energy uses electrolysis technology to split the purified water into hydrogen and oxygen. This method allows for clean hydrogen production, which is then used as a fuel source for electricity generation.
3. Hydrogen-Powered Combustion Engine
PlusZero has developed a hydrogen combustion engine that generates green electricity from the produced hydrogen. This technology powers shore-side generators, eliminating the need for diesel generators while vessels are berthed.
4. Shore Power Connection to Tugboats
The final step involves supplying this zero-emission electricity to vessels docked at port. In this pilot project, the Targe Towing azimuth tractor tug, Balmerino, became the first-ever vessel to connect to a hydrogen-powered shore unit, marking a major milestone for clean maritime energy.
The Environmental and Economic Impact
Cutting Carbon Emissions in Ports
The UK’s maritime industry is responsible for approximately 5% of the country’s total emissions. A major contributor to this is the use of diesel-powered auxiliary systems while ships are docked. Hydrogen-based shore power eliminates this reliance on fossil fuels, significantly reducing emissions and improving air quality around ports.
Scaling Hydrogen Technology for Wider Adoption
This first-of-its-kind project proves that hydrogen shore power is not only technically viable but also scalable. As the shipping industry moves towards stricter emissions regulations, ports worldwide will need to adopt alternative energy solutions to meet net-zero targets.
Why This Matters for Engineers and SMEs
The transition to hydrogen-based energy systems is creating significant business opportunities for:
✔ Engineers and technical specialists working in hydrogen production, energy storage, and combustion technology.
✔ SMEs looking to secure contracts in renewable energy, maritime infrastructure, and port electrification.
✔ Companies seeking to reduce emissions and integrate hydrogen solutions into their operations.
At Williams Consulting, we help engineers and SMEs navigate this shift, secure high-value contracts, and position themselves in emerging growth sectors.
A Blueprint for the Future of Maritime Energy
The Port of Leith’s hydrogen shore power project is more than just a successful trial—it is a blueprint for decarbonising ports worldwide. With the right investment, expertise, and infrastructure, green hydrogen has the potential to revolutionise the maritime sector.
Is Your Business Ready for the Next Wave of Clean Energy?
Whether you’re an engineer, SME, or industry leader, the shift towards hydrogen power is creating new opportunities for those ready to embrace change.
Get in touch with Williams Consulting to explore how your business can be part of the future of clean maritime energy.