Ports of the future : enabling green hydrogen and maritime sustainability

Abstract

The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is positioning itself as a key player in South Africa’s transition to a green economy, with a strong focus on decarbonizing port operations and enabling the green hydrogen economy. As global trade centres, African ports face the dual challenge of maintaining competitiveness while reducing their environmental footprint. This presentation explores the transformative role of ports in the green transition, with a focus on South Africa’s TNPA. It is spearheading efforts to decarbonize port operations (pilot boats, tugboats) through renewable energy integration (solar, wind, ocean energy), green fuel adoption, and infrastructure upgrades aligned with the national hydrogen strategic role. This will support the export of green fuels ‒ such as hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol ‒ through infrastructure development at key ports like Richards Bay, Ngqura, Saldanha, and Boegoebaai. These key initiatives include the development of hydrogen export terminals, the deployment of shore power, and the use of alternative fuels for port equipment and vessels. Through strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and innovation, TNPA is positioning South Africa’s ports as catalysts for a sustainable maritime future. These efforts align with South Africa’s broader hydrogen roadmap and TNPA’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.