Ranking Global Locations for Renewable Energy-Based Harbor Industrial Complexes

Abstract

This thesis screens and ranks optimal globally sites for renewable energy-based harbor industrial complexes, with a focus on heavy industries such as steel and petrochemicals. These sectors account for nearly 40% of global Carbon dioxide(CO₂) emissions and are among the most challenging to decarbonize due to their high energy demands, dependence on fossil fuels, and long asset lifespans. To enable a transition to more sustainable production processes, proximity to abundant renewable energy resources is highly desirable, as it facilitates large-scale electrification and green hydrogen production for industrial operations. Nine international industrial clusters were evaluated according to three principal criteria: geographical and infrastructural suitability, renewable energy availability (wind and solar), and financial/economic feasibility (including cost of capital and construction costs). Data was collected from global energy databases, national policy frameworks, and cost estimation models. The results indicate that while no single location performs best across all criteria, the US Gulf Coast, the Antwerp–Rotterdam–Rhine–Ruhr Area (ARRRA) cluster, Southeast Brazil, and West India emerge as leading contenders, albeit with substantial variation in their competitive profiles. Some clusters possess sufficient renewable resources to meet projected demand, whereas others, like Saudi Arabia, may require relocation of heavy industrial activities or substantial transport and import of green hydrogen. The study offers recommendations for policymakers and industry leaders on aligning renewable energy deployment with industrial decarbonization strategies, thereby supporting the global transition towards net zero.