Scottish ports could become major centres of electricity demand, supporting offshore wind manufacturing, assembly and shore power, according to a report commissioned by Scottish Renewables . The report warns that grid constraints, consenting delays and electricity costs could limit investment. The report, Port Power: Electricity Demand in Scotland, was prepared by grid connections consultancy Roadnight Taylor. It examines the changing electricity requirements of Scottish ports as they support offshore wind development, industrial electrification and efforts to reduce emissions from shipping.
Ports have invested in infrastructure and facilities to attract clean energy projects and strengthen Scotland’s offshore wind supply chain. Manufacturing, assembly, operations and maintenance can increase the economic value generated by port activities, while shore power allows vessels to connect to the electricity grid while alongside, reducing emissions and improving local air quality.
However, delays in securing grid connections and consent for new infrastructure, together with electricity costs, could hinder these developments. Scottish Renewables is calling for port electricity demand to be incorporated into the Strategic Spatial Energy Plan and Regional Energy Strategic Plans to support coordinated network investment and faster consenting.
Based on interviews with representatives of 12 Scottish ports and harbours, the report identifies four main findings:
- Electricity needs vary between ports. Some require additional capacity for existing operations, while others anticipate substantial new demand from industrial tenants.
- Industrial activity is a major source of demand. Onshore industrial projects, including offshore wind manufacturing and assembly, can require significant amounts of electricity.
- Grid connections may delay investment. Ports have invested in infrastructure and capabilities, but delays in securing grid connections and consent for related projects risk slowing development.
- Shore power faces commercial barriers. Limited grid capacity, upfront costs, electricity prices and uncertainty over vessel demand are restricting uptake.
The report recommends several measures to address these challenges. These include incorporating port electricity requirements into strategic energy and network planning, clarifying application procedures for grid connections, reducing avoidable delays and improving access to information on connection costs and capacity.
It also calls for better coordination between government, regulators and network operators, alongside greater consideration of how ports finance infrastructure. Ports often need to demonstrate that sufficient electricity capacity will be available before tenants and project financing can be secured.
