The Port of Heysham, part of leading port operator - Peel Ports Group, has reduced the carbon emissions of its landside plant, equipment and vehicles by up to 90%, in what is believed to be a first for any UK port.
The port has confirmed all its vehicles, plant equipment, forklift trucks, tug masters and ancillary equipment are now operating on either electricity or Hydro-treated Vegetable Oil (HVO).
Hydro-treated Vegetable Oil (HVO)
While using 100% renewable electricity is the ultimate goal for the port operator, Hydro-treated Vegetable Oil (HVO) uses plant-based oils in its composition, which reduces CO2 emissions to the atmosphere by up to 90%, and direct emissions of particulate matter, such as dust, smoke and other fine materials, by up to 65%.
Hydro-treated Vegetable Oil (HVO) can be substituted directly for diesel fuel
Hydro-treated Vegetable Oil (HVO) can be substituted directly for diesel fuel and is broadly considered a greener option to diesel due to its lower NOx emissions.
Port of Heysham
Located in the North West of England, and due to its close proximity to major industrial clusters, Heysham provides a critical and direct gateway to the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man.
The Port of Heysham handles a wide range of cargo, including Roll-on Roll-off, agri-bulks, automotive, project cargo and energy products, as well as offering significant warehousing and storage facilities.
Explore longer-term solutions for next-gen landside equipment
Lewis McIntyre, Managing Director - Port Services at Peel Ports Group, said “We are transitioning our entire vehicle fleet and landside equipment to run on either electric or HVO in our drive, to become net zero across the group by 2040. While HVO as a transition fuel offers a significant improvement, we are working with manufacturers and suppliers to explore longer-term solutions for the next generation of landside equipment.”
Lewis McIntyre adds, “Heysham requires less machinery and equipment in its operations, compared to some of our larger ports. This means we’ve been able to reduce emissions much faster, as part our conversion plans. We are confident that once we convert the rest of the equipment and transition from gas in our onsite office, Heysham will become one of the first UK ports to become 100% carbon neutral.”