NetZero: DP World London Gateway Receives New Photovoltaic Panels

Moving ever closer to its goal of attaining the status of the most sustainable logistics business here in the UK, DP World has successfully trialled some impressive solar energy units to power the London gateway hub. They have such an impact that it also helps the UK net zero target.

The hub plays host to 548,000 lorries each year as they either discharge or collect their containers. The canopy over the gatehouse building has had sunlight-converting photovoltaic panels installed on the roof and has been able to generate 29.95 MWh of electricity during the first two months. This included 120 kW/h as its highest daily peak.

DP World Chief Operating Officer Andrew Bowen has spoken of the fact that decarbonisation is perhaps the biggest challenge faced in the world today. As a company, they are committed to cutting their omissions, and one of the ways they will do this is by increasing renewable electricity use. Over the next three years, following the success of this trial, they plan to install even more photovoltaic solar panels at both the London gateway hub and the logistics hub in Southampton.

He said: Andrew Bowen, Chief Operating Officer at DP World, said: “We are committed to mitigating the impacts of climate change by becoming a net zero logistics organisation by 2050. This successful trial is another step on that journey, with our gatehouse complex becoming the first entirely carbon-neutral part of London Gateway since the photovoltaic panels were introduced two months ago.”

Logistic Hubs

DP World is responsible for two deepwater ports, one at the London Gateway and one at Southampton. They are the most advanced logistics hubs in the country and have access to freight rail terminals. It is responsible for £43 billion worth of goods each year which contributes to the UK economy. There is a positive knock-on effect on customers who are also hoping to progress their own sustainable journeys. If DP World can decarbonise its own operations, this flows into its trade agreements with over 200 countries across six continents.

Southampton Progress

In 2022, Southampton was able to transition to a renewable biodiesel called hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), which is derived from sources that are sustainable. It meant that it was also able to make good on its target and deliver a net carbon emissions absolute reduction of 55%.

London Gateway

When it opens in the summer of 2023, the London Gateway’s fourth berth will be the first all-electric berth. It forms part of the Thames Freeport and cost £350 million to build. The company is also constructing sustainable warehouses, although the building has not started just yet. These will be located at the logistics park adjacent to the London gateway. The target for these buildings will be to create a 30% carbon reduction during the build and also an operation of carbon emissions reduction of 40%. All of this is good news and incredibly positive as it brings the UK a step closer to Net Zero.

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