Port of Aberdeen, Scotland’s largest berthage port, is set to become the UK’s most advanced port with a substantial £1 million investment in new technology aimed at enhancing safety, connectivity, and sustainability.
The contract encompasses upgrading and expanding the port’s CCTV and security systems, and deploying private 5G, public Wi-Fi, and IoT networks to support a range of solutions aimed at improving operations and customer experience.
This collaboration with North follows Port of Aberdeen’s £420 million investment in its transformational Aberdeen South Harbour expansion project, the largest marine infrastructure project in Trust Port history, officially opened in September 2023.
North has designed and implemented an extensive CCTV and security system across the port’s North Harbour and South Harbour. This includes integrated video management systems, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), and access control.
Durable 4K marine-grade cameras with video analytics now provide visibility as vessels approach the port, enabling a more intelligent approach to security management. Enhancements to control barriers and ANPR integration have bolstered real-time event detection and traffic management, ultimately helping to better safeguard people and resources across the port.
The 5G investment will enable Port of Aberdeen to install a high-performing private 5G network, providing enhanced connectivity at the new South Harbour. The 5G network will improve communications and support applications such as drone technology, smart bollards, and 5G cameras.
With 6948 vessels utilising the port in 2023, the introduction of 5G infrastructure will advance data gathering through new technologies and, importantly, support Port of Aberdeen’s goal of becoming the UK’s first net zero port by 2040.
The technology will enable the port to provide a safe, secure, and connected environment, furthering its growth and sustainability targets through newly secured contracts with cruise operators and shipping companies responsible for building renewable energy sources in the North Sea.
“Port of Aberdeen is focused on using cutting edge technology to achieve its aspirations, both in maintaining operations at the port and delivering our award-winning, industry-leading 2040 net zero strategy. The additional data available through the installation of these systems will allow our team to make more informed decisions that will continue to enable us to offer the operational excellence that our customers expect,” said Jon Oakey, Chief Financial Officer, Port of Aberdeen. “We look forward to continuing the journey with North following these awards.”
Complementing the new 5G network, the introduction of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions will allow Port of Aberdeen to monitor environmental factors through sensor technology. This will provide data-led insights on applications such as waste management, air quality, parking, waste, flooding, and occupancy across the site.
“North is focussed on delivering stronger networks and smarter places, and we are proud to help Port of Aberdeen realise this. The port’s transformational expansion and mission to become Scotland’s first premier net zero port will be accelerated through its prioritisation of and investment into smart solutions,” added Julie Hutchison, Business Development Manager, North.
“North is uniquely placed to offer end-to-end technology solutions and we are looking forward to continuing our partnership with Port of Aberdeen as we embark on the next phase of the project. As part of this, we will work closely with the team to explore how data and trends are accessible through the technology which can drive operational efficiencies and support the Port’s digital transformation ambitions.”
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