As part of a multi-million pound investment programme, the Port has announced the launch of its Bates Clean Energy Terminal, offering enhanced facilities and the opportunity for low carbon focused investment and innovation.
This major redevelopment scheme supported by North East Local Enterprise Partnership, strengthens the Port’s reputation as one of the UK’s leading offshore energy support bases. It has created an enlarged 17 hectare terminal with two berths, upgraded heavy lift quays, up to 8 hectares of fully remediated, prime quayside development land and with further expansion anticipated.
The Port has is also committed to a decarbonisation strategy for the site and the wider port involving electrification of plant (including a new 120 tonne capacity electric heavy lift crane) and low carbon energy initiatives for new and existing buildings. These include the potential for mine water sourced heating, latest technology solar power and a range of energy efficiency measures.
With the site adjacent to Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, there is also a significant opportunity for low carbon energy focused research and innovation with collaboration on a range of initiatives such as green hydrogen, shore power, battery storage, vessel automation and subsea robotics being explored. Other partners working on the Bates Clean Energy Terminal include Northumberland County Council and marine fuels specialist, Geos Group.