The Department for Transport has today published its summary of responses to the Net Zero Ports: Challenges and Opportunities call for evidence, launched alongside the Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy in March 2025.
Commenting on the publication, UK Chamber Environment Policy Director, Francesco Sandrelli said: "We welcome the Department for Transport’s recognition that ports and shipping are central to the UK’s clean growth ambitions, and that grid capacity, energy costs and infrastructure delivery are now among the biggest barriers to maritime decarbonisation. The priority now must be delivery."
Measures such as the UK ETS and the forthcoming Fuel UK Standard are important, but regulation alone will not deliver the transition. Decarbonisation requires progress on both vessels and infrastructure, supported by practical measures that enable ports, fuel suppliers and the wider maritime supply chain to invest with confidence. Without that, there is a real risk of creating a ‘pay to pollute’ system that does little to accelerate decarbonisation.
Ship operators need certainty that the right fuels, shore power and supporting infrastructure will be available in the right locations and at commercially viable prices. Faster grid connections, clearer investment signals and internationally aligned regulation will be essential if the UK is to remain competitive and avoid falling behind other maritime nations.
We look forward to working with Government, ports, energy networks and fuel providers to ensure forthcoming maritime fuel regulations support practical decarbonisation, protect UK competitiveness, and unlock investment across the maritime value chain."
The report forms part of the Government's wider maritime decarbonisation programme, with DfT setting out next steps and further engagement with industry.
A stakeholder webinar will be held on 24 September to discuss the findings and future policy development, and we will keep members informed of the discussions.
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