10160838PortLAEP: Digital Twin and Feasibility Assessments for Maritime DecarbonisationClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UK**PROBLEM:** The maritime sector stands at the cusp of a profound energy transition, facing critical decisions on environmentally effective and operationally feasible decarbonisation: research suggests that **70% of ports are already at or near to their ceiling in terms of available power**.\[1\] One key challenge is requirements to decarbonise port-owned and operated vessels by 2030, with biofuels identified as a likely near-term pathway. The project will assess the feasibility of fuel switching, grid connectivity upgrades, and infrastructure phasing, all while aligning technical plans with the operational needs of vessel operators. **PortLAEP** supports our maritime partners in navigating these challenges by providing a framework for port-based decarbonisation, turning strategic ambitions into implementable, real-world plans. **OUR AIM** is to transform complex port energy systems by leveraging our cutting-edge Local Area Energy Planning (LAEP) expertise and thought leadership into developing a bespoke, port-focused methodology. We have previously delivered targeted decarbonisation pathways across port-based local authorities such as Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, South West Wales, and are presently delivering one for Hull & East Riding. **OUR SOLUTION, PortLAEP,** involves creating a digital twin of a port to model how alternative fuels (e.g. biofuels, ammonia, and shore power) can be scaled effectively. It simulates interactions between vessels, fuels, and infrastructure under different scenarios, helping decision-makers clearly understand trade-offs, phasing options, and investment needs. **END-USERS:** The ports of Hull (via Hull City Council) and Neath Port Talbot will validate the digital twin using real port data, ensuring PortLAEP reflects operational needs and supports scalable, actionable decarbonisation planning across ports. **INNOVATION:** This cutting-edge work will deliver: * A dynamic modelling framework tailored for maritime decarbonisation. * A digital twin representing the port's future energy system. * Technoeconomic feasibility studies covering infrastructure and fuel transitions. * A detailed, phased investment roadmap to support implementation. * Enhanced technical capacity within the maritime sector for planning NZ transitions. **OUTCOMES** will empower maritime authorities, operators, and planners with tools and insights needed to make evidence-based, cost-effective decisions. Clearly articulating implications of different technological pathways (e.g. interplays between shore power and alternative fuels) our modelling will drive forward understanding, investment, and emissions reductions. In addition to supporting local action, this project contributes to national maritime decarbonisation by creating transferable insights to accelerate emissions cuts across UK ports. It supports the UK's goals of 30% emissions reduction by 2030 and NZ 2050, while driving innovation and economic growth within maritime. \[1\]BritishPortsAssociation