VC firm Plug and Play is partnering with the ports operator on the initiative.

Fruit Terminal, Associated British Ports, Southampton – geograph.org.uk

The UK ports operator has started an energy ventures accelerator to help startups scale their businesses in areas such as hydrogen, floating wind and low-carbon fuels.

Associated British Ports has partnered with venture capital investor Plug and Play to run the accelerator.

Dubbed Energy Ventures Accelerator, the programme will focus on sustainable energy-related projects, such as centres for industrial decarbonisation in the Humber, floating offshore wind in South Wales and maritime decarbonisation in Southampton, according to a release.

Founded in 1983, ABP runs a network of 21 ports, which accounts for 25% of the UK’s seaborne trade. The latest initiative is part of the firm’s goal to reach net zero by 2040.

Kim Moore

Kim Moore is the deputy editor of Global Venturing and produces video for the website.