Peel Ports Group, one of the UK's major port operators, has revealed plans to implement hydropower technology at its Queen Elizabeth II Dock in Eastham in England. This initiative aligns with Peel Ports' overarching goal to achieve net-zero status across its operations by 2040.
Teaming up with Czech renewable energy firm Hydropol, Peel Ports will install a modern twin Archimedean screw generator at the dock's 30ft lock. This setup is expected to generate approximately 1,500,000 kWh per year, equivalent to powering around 190,000 homes for a day.
Peel Ports will acquire this renewable energy from Hydropol through a unique private energy procurement arrangement.
The generated power will not only supply the dock itself but also fuel the operations of its Green Automotive Hub, established in late 2023 to support eco-friendly vehicle manufacturing. By incorporating hydropower into the hub's operations, Peel Ports enhances its sustainability efforts and achieves full energy independence.
“The introduction of hydropower at Queen Elizabeth II Dock is another major achievement as we seek to make our operations greener and more sustainable for the future,” commented Lewis McIntyre, Managing Director of Port Services at Peel Ports Group. “The amount of renewable energy set to be produced is significant and builds on Eastham Dock’s sustainable credentials.”
The integration of hydropower at Queen Elizabeth II Dock represents the latest step in Peel Ports' broader strategy to enhance the sustainability of its operations nationwide. The company has already made significant strides in reducing Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions across its ports, achieving a 32% reduction from its 2020 baseline.
In 2021 Peel Ports announced its commitment to becoming a net zero port operator by 2040, ten years ahead of the UK Government’s target, making it the first UK port operator to declare such ambitious decarbonisation plans.
