Montrose Port Authority (MPA) has achieved remarkable success at the prestigious 2024 Courier Business Awards, securing both the Transition to Net Zero Award and the coveted Business of the Year Award.

The awards, run in partnership by DC Thomson and Henderson Loggie for the past 11 years, took place at the Apex City Quay Hotel and was hosted by Jackie Bird. The annual black-tie event is a celebration of businesses operating in the Tayside and Fife area and saw over 700 guests in the region’s business community come together and celebrate all their achievements.

These wins for Montrose Port not only celebrate the port’s excellence in business operations but also highlight its commitment to sustainability – a critical focus as Scotland moves toward a greener future.

A Milestone Achievement: Business of the Year 2024

For the judges’ decision to be unanimous in choosing Montrose Port Authority as Business of the Year is an incredible achievement for the MPA team. Described by judges as, “an operation that excels on every level,” Montrose Port’s success reflects the dedication of the entire team, who work tirelessly to support a thriving maritime economy. This award also highlights the port’s strategic growth, innovative services, and powerful ambition to become Scotland’s first carbon-neutral port.

Under the leadership of CEO Tom Hutchison, Montrose Port has evolved beyond a traditional cargo port, making significant strides in infrastructure, service offerings and sustainability. Noteworthy developments include the multi-million-pound restoration of the historic Customs House into a vibrant commercial space and community hub, and the launch of the Plug Montrose shore power facility, a giant step toward decarbonised port operations.

The trust port’s role in the renewables sector has expanded significantly, positioning Montrose as a key player in Scotland’s green energy transition. Hosting the operations and maintenance (O&M) base for Seagreen, the country’s largest offshore wind farm, and soon for Inch Cape wind farm, with construction of its O&M base set for next year, Montrose Port is central to Scotland’s offshore energy, shipping, and logistics sectors. The recent purchase of 45 acres of prime industrial land, nearly doubling its footprint, further emphasises Montrose’s vital role as a central hub for these industries.

Beyond business success, Montrose Port Authority stands out as a community champion, consistently supporting local charitable causes through its community fund and creating jobs that bolster the local economy.

On receiving the award, CEO Tom Hutchison expressed his pride in the team’s achievements: “It feels absolutely fantastic. We are totally privileged. It’s all down to the team. I’ve got a fantastic team, a bunch of people who don’t realise how good they really are. Hopefully this award will demonstrate that we’re going in the right direction. We work hard but we play hard. I go to work every day with my best pals, it’s just a happy place to be. We have a massive amount of ambition. It’s hard to say where we’ll end up, but we will make Montrose and Angus and the east coast of Scotland proud.”

With this recognition, Montrose Port Authority celebrates an extraordinary milestone, reinforcing its leadership within Scotland’s maritime sector and its ongoing commitment to sustainable development.

Leading the Charge in Sustainability: Transition to Net Zero Award

Winning the Transition to Net Zero Award celebrates Montrose Port Authority’s impactful progress in sustainable port operations and reducing its environmental footprint. Maria Bos, CEO of Plug – the partner in MPA’s £1 million self-funded shore power initiative, Plug Montrose – joined MPA CEO Tom Hutchison at the event to accept the award, highlighting the partnership’s success in advancing greener port solutions.

Plug Montrose allows vessels to connect to the port’s grid and use electricity supplied under the Renewable Energy Guarantee of Origin (REGO) instead of running diesel generators while berthed. This innovative facility reduces fuel consumption, noise pollution, and emissions around the port. As the first port in the UK to offer shore power on an industrial scale, MPA has already achieved over 200 tonnes of CO₂ reduction through this facility, setting a benchmark in sustainable port operations.

Other sustainability milestones that contributed to MPA’s Transition to Net Zero award include:

• Alternative Fuels: MPA’s adoption of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel across all plant machinery, vehicles, and pilot boats, along with active exploration of other clean fuel alternatives.
• Electric Vehicles and Infrastructure: Investment in electric vehicles and supporting infrastructure to further reduce the port’s carbon footprint.
• Decarbonisation Expertise: MPA’s recent appointment of Dr. Turgay Köroğlu as Decarbonisation Engineer through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership with Strathclyde University. Dr. Köroğlu’s expertise is driving MPA’s efforts to become a green energy hub for multiple transport modes, enhance environmental quality for the local community, and become Scotland’s first carbon-neutral port.
• Sustainable Repurposing: Innovative repurposing of buildings, such as Customs House and the Seagreen O&M base, into functional spaces supporting both the port and the community.
• Circular Economy Initiatives: An old lifeboat was repurposed as unique glamping accommodation at a Stirlingshire campsite, demonstrating MPA’s commitment to contributing to the circular economy.

Through initiatives like these, MPA is setting a powerful example of how traditional port operations can evolve into eco-conscious enterprises.

Driving Economic Growth While Protecting the Environment

Montrose Port Authority’s twin wins are especially notable in an era where businesses are challenged to balance growth with environmental impact. As Scotland’s economy continues to expand, Montrose Port remains committed to creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and promoting economic development in a way that respects and protects our natural resources. The Courier Business Awards have recognised Montrose Port not only for its contributions to the local economy but also for its vision in advancing Scotland’s sustainable growth.

A Bright Future Ahead

Looking forward, Montrose Port is excited to continue its journey of growth, innovation, and sustainability. The dual wins at the Courier Business Awards highlight Montrose Port as a national leader, and these achievements further inspire the team to pursue even higher standards. With upcoming projects focused on supporting the energy transition, MPA is committed to maintaining its position as a top-tier port while advancing Scotland’s net-zero ambitions.