ABP Transforms UK Ports into Clean Energy Hubs to Power Net-Zero Future

Associated British Ports (ABP), the UK’s largest port operator, is reshaping the maritime landscape by turning its port facilities into catalysts for clean energy innovation. Spearheaded by Max Harris, ABP’s Group Head of Strategy and Sustainability, this bold transformation aligns ports with the UK’s wider energy transition and climate goals.

Ports as Engines of Green Innovation

Traditionally focused on facilitating trade, ABP’s 21 ports—handling a quarter of the UK’s seaborne trade—are now driving clean energy solutions. With an 8,600-acre land portfolio and deep-rooted industrial ties, ABP is uniquely positioned to support sectors in decarbonizing through renewable energy infrastructure and climate tech partnerships.

The company’s Energy Ventures Accelerator (EVA) is a key part of this shift. EVA connects carbon-intensive customers—like shipping firms and steel producers—with emerging climate tech startups. This initiative not only supports emissions reduction but also opens new investment opportunities in clean energy.

“Hydrogen is one of the most promising pathways to decarbonize industrial heat,” said Harris. “We’re working with innovative producers to make clean hydrogen more cost-effective and widely available.”

A Shift in Role: From Trade Gateway to Climate Enabler

ABP’s modern remit extends beyond traditional port operations. In addition to lifting cargo, ABP now helps customers transition to greener operations by enabling access to clean fuels, offshore wind, and carbon capture infrastructure.

Key assets—like Siemens Gamesa’s wind turbine facility at Green Port Hull—exemplify how ABP’s real estate is being leveraged for sustainable manufacturing. Ports like Hull, Southampton, South Wales, and East Anglia are now magnets for low-carbon industrial clusters, bringing jobs and green investment to coastal communities.

Smart Tech for Sustainable Logistics

ABP is also embracing digital innovation. At the Port of Southampton, a partnership with Verizon led to the UK’s first private industrial 5G network, improving operational efficiency and lowering carbon footprints across supply chains.

“Better connectivity helps us optimize everything from vehicle movements to storage logistics—not just for cost savings, but also for reducing emissions,” Harris added.

Leading by Example: ABP’s Climate Strategy

Internally, ABP aims to be operationally net zero by 2040. It has already installed 32MW of clean energy capacity—including rooftop solar and onshore wind—across its port facilities. This energy powers operations and is also sold to tenants, helping businesses transition to cheaper, greener electricity.

Flood resilience is also a priority, with ABP investing in infrastructure upgrades to mitigate the long-term risks posed by rising sea levels.

Strategy and Sustainability Under One Roof

Harris leads both strategy and sustainability at ABP, ensuring that clean growth is embedded into the business model. This integrated approach supports long-term commercial goals while enabling ABP to meet evolving customer needs and advance the UK’s net-zero targets.

“We’re helping our customers pivot to clean energy, and in doing so, we’re transforming the role of ports for the 21st century,” Harris said.

Conclusion

ABP’s transformation illustrates how maritime ports—once seen only as gateways for goods—can become hubs of climate action, clean tech innovation, and industrial reinvention. By linking trade, infrastructure, and sustainability, ABP is helping chart a greener course for the UK economy.