Offshore wind power is a rapidly growing source of renewable energy that has the potential to contribute significantly to the sustainability of seaports. This technology involves the installation of wind turbines in bodies of water, typically in the ocean, to harness the energy of the wind and convert it into electricity.

Ports are fundamental for economic activity, but port operations are also sources of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) due to the heavy use of fossil fuels used in the transportation and handling of goods. Offshore wind power has the potential to be a major contributor to the port’s energy mix, and its benefits extend beyond just reducing carbon emissions. By harnessing the power of wind, ports can generate electricity that is both sustainable and cost-effective.

Ports are sometimes located in areas with poor air quality due to emissions from ships and other heavy machinery. Transitioning to renewable sources helps seaports reduce their carbon footprint and improve local air quality.

The benefits between ports and offshore wind power are interchangeable. According to WindEurope, ports are central to offshore wind as turbines are transported through them, and they are the base for the operation and maintenance of offshore wind farms.

“Ports are essential for offshore wind. They’re a vital part of the supply and logistics chain that’s needed for the installation, assembly, operation and maintenance of offshore wind farms. We can’t expand offshore without also expanding and upgrading Europe’s port infrastructure”, says Giles Dickson, WindEurope CEO.

Experts believe Europe needs to invest €6.5bn in its ports now just to deliver the offshore wind expansion planned for 2030, reports WindEurope.

However, offshore wind power is not without disadvantages. The primary disadvantage is the high cost of installation and maintenance. Another challenge is the potential impact on marine life. Offshore wind farms can affect the behaviour and migration patterns of marine animals. This is in addition to the risk of collision with birds and bats.