A project led by the University of Portsmouth has been awarded £1.5 million to help develop and demonstrate a Green Hydrogen energy system within Portsmouth International Port.

The SHAPE UK project is one of the winning projects of the £23 million Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition, funded by the Department for Transport, to propel the government’s commitment to have zero emission ships operating commercially by 2025.

The project will help identify the barriers, infrastructure and regulatory considerations that will enable port managers to install a “Green Hydrogen” generation and storage system within the port. 

It will also supply a working vessel to the port authority, powered by an engine using green hydrogen.

Portsmouth International Port is committed to becoming the first carbon neutral UK port by 2030, and the first zero-emission port by 2050.

Dr David Hutchinson, Innovation and Impact Development Manager for the Faculty of Technology at the University of Portsmouth, said: “SHAPE UK represents a milestone in the move to innovative low-cost green hydrogen generation and storage systems that bring significant reduction in carbon emissions and air pollution in and around Portsmouth and other UK ports.

“The project will also help the University achieve its core strategic aims. We have committed to becoming climate positive by 2030 and to becoming one of the UK's leading civic universities; enhancing the local community and region through our research, services, estate, and staff and student collaboration.”

Hutchinson added: “The port is keen to act as a ‘living lab’ so there will be a great student experience element, which will be particularly relevant for students in our Faculty of Technology, such as those on the renewable energy degree.”