The Port of Newcastle will move to 100 per cent renewable energy from next year in an attempt to further reduce its carbon footprint.
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Tenders have been issued to move the port's embedded energy networks at Mayfield, Carrington and the Newcastle Bulk Terminal to renewables.
The overall goal is to reduce the port's Scope 2 emissions - emissions that result from the generation of electricity, heat or steam purchased by an agency from a utility provider.
"In April 2019, we completed a full renovation of our new offices, consolidating three levels into one and introduced increased energy efficiency," a Port of Newcastle spokesman said.
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"This is one of many commitments made towards more sustainable operations. Minimising our environmental footprint, diversifying trade and creating a more resilient economy requires a determined, long-term effort between the port and its stakeholders."
"While we look to what the port could be in the decades ahead, it is clear there are things we can do today to make the way we operate the port more sustainable and responsible."
The Port of Newcastle follows the University of Newcastle and the City of Newcastle which have moved to 100 per cent renewable energy in the past two years.
The Port of Newcastle became the first Australian port to join the International EcoPorts network in 2019. It is now one of 115 ports around the world to have been certified under the program.
The certification followed a series of assessments by Lloyd's Register to measure the port against best practice management around the world.
The port will also transition its vehicle fleet to 100 per cent electric by the end of 2021.
Four vehicles have already been purchased with more expected this year.
The initiative will save more than 48 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
Three new electric vehicle charging stations - one at Wharf Road, in partnership with City of Newcastle, and the other two at Walsh Point and Carrington - will also be installed.
Matthew Kelly
Matthew Kelly has worked as a journalist for more than 25 years. He has been working as a general reporter at the Newcastle Herald since 2018. In recent years he has reported on subjects including environment, energy, water security, manufacturing and higher education. He has previously covered issues including the health and environmental impacts of uncovered coal wagons in the Hunter Valley, the pollution of legacy of former industrial sites and freedom of information issues.
Matthew Kelly has worked as a journalist for more than 25 years. He has been working as a general reporter at the Newcastle Herald since 2018. In recent years he has reported on subjects including environment, energy, water security, manufacturing and higher education. He has previously covered issues including the health and environmental impacts of uncovered coal wagons in the Hunter Valley, the pollution of legacy of former industrial sites and freedom of information issues.
