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North, a provider of smart integrated solutions, has secured contracts worth £1 million from the Port of Aberdeen to enhance safety, connectivity, and sustainability at Scotland’s largest berthing port.
These contracts encompass upgrading and expanding the port’s CCTV and security systems and implementing private 5G, public Wi-Fi, and IoT networks to improve operations and customer experience.
This collaboration follows a transformative £420 million expansion of the port’s South Harbour, which officially opened in September 2023 and marks the largest marine infrastructure project in the Trust’s history.
North has designed and deployed an extensive CCTV and security system across both North Harbour and South Harbour. This system includes integrated video management systems, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), and access control.
Durable 4K marine-grade cameras with video analytics now provide visibility for vessels approaching the port, enabling a more intelligent approach to security management. Upgrades to control barriers and ANPR integration have enhanced real-time event detection and traffic management, ultimately improving the safety of people and resources throughout the port.
The investment in 5G will enable the Port of Aberdeen to install a high-performance private 5G network, offering better connectivity at the new South Port. This network will enhance communications and support applications such as drone technology, smart bollards, and 5G cameras.
With 6,948 vessels utilising the port in 2023, the introduction of 5G infrastructure will advance data gathering through new technologies and support the Port of Aberdeen’s goal of becoming the UK’s first net zero port by 2040.
The new technology will allow the Port of Aberdeen to create a safe, secure, and connected environment, supporting their growth and sustainability goals through newly secured contracts with cruise operators and shipping companies responsible for building renewable energy sources in the North Sea.
Jon Oakey, Chief Financial Officer at Port of Aberdeen, stated, “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 from these systems will enable our team to make more informed decisions, continuing to deliver the operational excellence our customers expect.”
In addition to the new 5G network, the introduction of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions will allow the Port of Aberdeen to monitor environmental factors through sensor technology, providing data-driven insights on applications such as waste management, air quality, parking, flooding, and occupancy across the site.
Julie Hutchison, business development manager at North, commented, “North is focused on delivering stronger networks and smarter places, and we are proud to help Port of Aberdeen achieve this. Its transformative expansion and mission to become Scotland’s premier net zero port will be accelerated through prioritising and investing in smart solutions.
“North is uniquely positioned to offer end-to-end technology solutions, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with the 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 made accessible through the technology can drive operational efficiencies and support the Port’s digital transformation ambitions.”