In a joint white paper published in November 2023, DP World and APM Terminals map out a path for the port industry to decarbonize container terminal handling equipment this decade.

DP World has signed a partnership agreement with Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company, better known as Masdar, to explore and implement renewable energy systems in DP World's port operations in the Middle East and Africa.

The agreement aims to facilitate the widespread adoption of renewable energy and battery energy storage systems (BESS) within DP World's supply chain.

During this three-year partnership, according to a press release dated February 26, the two groups will work together to identify optimal sites for the potential deployment of solar and energy storage systems, focusing initially on Saudi Arabia, Senegal and Egypt.

"Our partnership with Masdar represents a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainable operations at our ports and terminals. By exploring renewable energy solutions, we aim to reduce our carbon footprint and drive positive change in the supply chain industry," said Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World.

While shipowners have the International Maritime Organization to legislate, coordinate and enforce the adoption of greener fuels and practices, the port and terminal sector has no such central governing body.

This places responsibility in the hands of informal coalitions of port, municipal and national authorities and private operators, with varying energy transition budgets and appetites for climate action.

Abdoullah Diop