Neil Gray MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Wellbeing, Economy, Fair Work, and Energy, has visited the Port of Aberdeen to observe first-hand how it contributes to economic growth and Scotland’s Just Transition.
During his visit to the port’s £420 million ($531 million) Aberdeen South Harbour expansion, which officially opened in September 2023, Gray learned about the port’s evolution into a world-class marine logistics hub for the offshore wind industry, alongside its ongoing support for North Sea oil and gas operations.
Gray was informed on a potential multimillion-pound dredging project at South Harbour. This project aims to increase the harbour’s capacity for floating wind activities by deepening the basin along Dunnottar Quay to -14 metres below chart datum.
READ: Port of Aberdeen invests £55 million towards net zero
Cabinet Secretary for the Wellbeing Economy, Fair Work and Energy Neil Gray said: “The transformational Port of Aberdeen is a hugely important gateway to Scotland’s economy and a catalyst for growth in energy, trade and tourism in the North East and across the country.
“Underlining our absolute determination to maximise the economic opportunities and benefits from our offshore wind potential, we are kick-starting our commitment to anchor our offshore wind supply chain in Scotland with investment of £67 million ($84 million) next year.
“This is the first tranche of our pledge to invest up to £500 million ($632 million) over the next five years. The recently completed construction of South Harbour, with support from the Scottish Government and its agencies, to service the floating offshore wind industry and reduce maritime emissions will help propel Scotland’s transition to a net-zero economy which is fair, green and growing.”
READ: Port of Aberdeen explores subsea hydrogen storage at new South Harbour
Bob Sanguinetti, CEO, Port of Aberdeen, stated: “We have invested £420 million ($531 million) in a strategic asset that will benefit Scotland and the wider UK. The expanded port has the potential to support 17,500 jobs and deliver £2.4 billion ($3 billion) Gross Value Added.
“However, this requires a carefully managed energy transition, balancing a strong oil and gas industry committed to achieving net zero with the growing renewables sector. An abrupt decline could severely impact the port, its clients, and the specialised supply chain.
“Port of Aberdeen is a case study of energy transition in action. We’re continuing to support our customers in oil and gas and onto decommissioning, while increasing our renewables business through existing and planned offshore wind developments.”
