Port of Blyth leads “clean energy revolution” via multi-million pound investment

Following a multi-million pound investment programme, the Port of Blyth has announced the opening of its Bates Clean Energy Terminal, offering enhanced facilities and the opportunity for low-carbon focused investment and innovation.

The secretary of state for transport, Anne-Marie Trevelyan carried out the official duties at an event attended by a wide range of port stakeholders.

This “major” redevelopment scheme, supported by funding from the North East Local Enterprise Partnership and North of Tyne Combined Authority, seeks to strengthen the Port’s reputation as “one of the UK’s leading” offshore energy support bases.

£2.85m of grant support was received from the NELEP between 2019-21 for Phase 1. This investment was for the redevelopment of the deep water quay, creation of hard standing and heavy haul linkage to Wimbourne Quay terminal.

£2.20m of grant support was received from the NTCA between 2021-22 for Phase 2. This investment was for enlarging and strengthening Bates Quay to accommodate heavy lift cranes up to 1,200t twin lift as well as to extend the marine fuels pipeline to Wimbourne Quay.

Consequently, this has created an enlarged 17-hectare terminal with two berths, upgraded heavy lift quays and up to five hectares of fully remediated, prime quayside development land.

The Port has committed to a decarbonisation strategy for the site and the wider port involving the electrification of the plant, including the purchase of a “first of its kind” Kone ES.6 electric crane and other low-carbon energy initiatives for new and existing buildings.

These include the potential for mine water-sourced heating, the latest technology solar power and a range of energy efficiency measures.

Martin Lawlor, chief executive of Port of Blyth, commented: “The opening of the Bates Clean Energy Terminal represents another important milestone in the Port’s commitment to the national decarbonisation strategy.

“Just as Bates Terminal was once instrumental to the coal industry revolution, the terminal is now leading the way in the clean energy revolution.

“With the support of national and regional partners, we have created a unique opportunity for low carbon focused inward investment and are confident that this initiative will help to further expand the significant offshore energy supply chain already located around the Blyth Estuary.”

By Matthew Neville – Correspondent, Bdaily

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