Delivering sustainable economic growth and driving energy transition - Q&A with Roddy James, Chief Commercial Officer
Roddy James, Chief Commercial Officer, talks about how Port of Aberdeen is strategically positioned to support both the oil and gas industry and the growing renewables sector, playing a key role in driving sustainable economic growth.
1. Can you give us an overview of Port of Aberdeen and the key industries it serves?
Port of Aberdeen is the UK’s oldest business with a history spanning almost 900 years. The port is a vital hub for the energy sector, serving both the oil and gas industry and will be an international hub for the growing offshore renewables market.
In addition to energy, the port handles approximately 3.5 million tonnes of cargo annually, supports lifeline ferry services to Orkney and Shetland, and plays a key role in Scotland’s expanding cruise tourism sector.
2. How does the port support its energy customers in oil and gas and renewables, and how do you see that changing with energy transition?
The port offers specialised support for energy operations, underpinned by decades of experience in oil and gas. As the industry transitions, Port of Aberdeen is evolving to accommodate offshore wind and other renewable projects - supporting both capital developments and long-term operations and maintenance (O&M).
The shift will not be uniform; instead, the port will provide bespoke services to address the distinct requirements of both conventional and emerging energy sectors.
Noble Intrepid docked at South Harbour during the arrival of Fred. Olsen Windcarrier’s Blue Tern (Photo credit: George Saunders)
3. How is the port adapting its services and facilities to meet the changing demands of energy customers?
The development of South Harbour has significantly enhanced the port’s capacity, offering deepwater berthing, heavy-lift capabilities, and extensive laydown space - crucial for large-scale offshore wind projects and supports the fuels of the future that the nation will import & export.
Alongside renewables, the port continues to provide world-class support for oil and gas operations, including mobilisation, logistics, and long-term O&M.
Through these strategic investments and a flexible service approach, the port ensures it remains a trusted partner throughout the energy transition.
4. The port has invested in new technology to offer green shore power at ten berths – why has the port chosen to take an industry-leading role in this area?
The port’s investment in shore power reflects its commitment to sustainability and leadership in decarbonising maritime operations. As a city-centre port, reducing emissions is particularly critical.
It significantly cuts emissions from berthed vessels, which account for 97% of the port’s direct emissions. This initiative supports Scotland’s net-zero ambitions and promotes cleaner, greener port operations at the heart of the city.
Shore Power in Operation - Scotland’s largest maritime decarbonisation project
5. Port of Aberdeen has been around for almost 900 years, what needs to happen to ensure its continued success in the future?
Continued success depends on strategic investment, operational agility, and collaboration with public and private stakeholders.
As a Trust Port, Port of Aberdeen reinvests all profits into enhancing its infrastructure and services for the future. With a legacy of adaptability - from its roots in farming, textiles, trading and fishing to its evolution into a vital energy hub - the port is strategically positioned to support both the oil and gas industry and the growing renewables sector, playing a key role in driving sustainable economic growth.
Roddy joined Port of Aberdeen as Chief Commercial Officer in 2022. His role focusses on the commercial, operations, marine, business development, and innovation departments within the port.
Having held international senior management and Board roles over the last 25 years in the energy, marine, subsea and ports industry, he joins the port at a historic time in its rich 888-year history.
With the recently completed £420m South Harbour expansion and the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energies, the port is well poised to welcome new business opportunities.
