Ports and the energy transition
Ports have a vital role in the construction, operation and maintenance of marine energy systems that will be essential to our net zero future. From fixed and floating offshore wind to tidal and wave power generation, ports are critical supply chain hubs essential to their development. Realising these shared climate goals requires timely investment in port facilities – with huge benefits for local communities.
Maritime clients gain our parallel expertise in global offshore wind energy, from acquisitions through technical and engineering studies. We have supported the design of over 30GW of offshore wind projects throughout the lifecycle, making us experts in the port infrastructure requirements, which are always shaped by local geographies and energy markets.
We work with a range of offshore wind clients, including developers, investors, national and state government, industry operators, port authorities and contractors. Our experience spans major strategic port development opportunities within the evolving offshore wind context, as well as having the critical technical specialists to cover the development needs from port infrastructure master planning to detailed design, procurement and construction.
The UK is the world's second largest offshore wind market - providing extensive project and investment expertise. Arup worked with the UK Government to analyse opportunities for Australia and the UK to work together and created a report with our findings.
Our energy and supply chain specialists analysed Australia’s existing capabilities, potential gaps, and barriers to UK industry participation. The analysis aims to promote understanding and strategic development, ensuring both nations can harness the potential of this growing sector.
The report takes a birds-eye view of the Australian OSW market, where analysis points to a robust demand for offshore wind with up to 40GW (30 + projects) by 2040. In addition the report identified areas critical for localised Australian offshore wind development, including factors such as heavy lift services, transport and installation services and safety training.
Beyond wind power, a net zero, affordable and secure global energy system will also see a growth in the maritime transport of low carbon fuels and captured carbon. These products can be challenging to handle in a safe and efficient manner, requiring specialist infrastructure that is appropriately integrated with the wider port environment.
We bring together our technical, commercial and sustainability skills across ports, energy and shipping to shape infrastructure concepts and designs for the transport of liquid products of the future. We understand that consenting and construction of maritime import/export infrastructure can be on the critical path energy developments, and bring together our global and local knowledge to reduce associated risks.
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Projects
Explore more maritime projects
Shaping the future of the Western Trade Coast’s infrastructure
Western Trade Coast Infrastructure Strategy, Australia
Unlocking the potential of green infrastructure to transform urban environments
Eden Dock Activation project, UK
Preserving Brunel’s iconic railway for future generations
Parson's Tunnel Rockfall Shelter, UK
Blending advanced engineering with traditional Japanese architecture to improve connectivity with Oita Airport
Oita hovercraft terminals, Japan
Maritime
Arup is helping clients to shape the future of ports, maritime transport and sustainable coastal communities. Together, we plan and develop the business case for growth and investment, as well as leading the transformation of ports as critical supply chain hubs to support the clean energy future.