Hamburg workshop: Ports and Energy Systems Interface: Opportunities, Conflict or Complementarity
Hosted by University of Liverpool Management School and the Centre for Shipping and Global Logistics at Kühne Logistics University (KLU) in Hamburg on Friday 8th May 2026
Ports are rapidly evolving as they electrify operations, integrate renewable energy, and work towards ambitious decarbonisation targets. This shift is creating a complex interface between port operations and energy systems - raising an important question: are these systems in conflict, or can they become complementary components of a more sustainable maritime infrastructure? Join us for “Ports and Energy Systems Interface: Opportunities, Conflict or Complementarity?”, an interactive workshop exploring this critical challenge, delivered by the University of Liverpool Management School’s Centre for Supply Chain Research.
The session begins with a hands-on simulation game, where you’ll step into the role of a decision maker balancing port operations with energy supply and demand. Using a simplified data environment, you’ll navigate real-world challenges such as demand peaks and troughs, variable renewable generation and fluctuating energy prices.
Participants will make operational decisions including the allocation of equipment, ship berthing duration, cold ironing requirements and energy procurement and storage.
This will be followed by an expert panel discussion and Q&A, bringing together voices from academia, industry and policy to reflect on key insights and future opportunities for sustainable port development.
Why attend?
- Take part in an interactive, decision based simulation
- Gain insight into the future of sustainable ports
- Hear from leading experts across sectors
- Network with professionals in maritime, energy and logistics
Schedule
08:30 – Arrival, networking and breakfast
08:50 – Welcome and introductions
09:00 – Interactive simulation led by Dr Cagatay Iris
09:30 – Simulation wrap-up followed by panel discussion and Q&A
Panel Co-Chairs:
- Dr Cagatay Iris, Associate Professor, Operations and Supply Chain Management, University of Liverpool Management School
- Prof. Dr. Gordon Wilmsmeier, Director, Hapag-Lloyd Center for Shipping and Global Logistics, Kühne Logistics University.
Panel Members:
- Prof Dongping Song, Chair in Supply Chain Management, University of Liverpool Management School
- Mr Gavin Quinn, Head of Commercial Development, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
- Dr Mirjam Peters, Chief Customer Sustainability & Regulatory Affairs Officer, Höegh Autoliners
- Mr Jannes Elfgen, Head of Port Energy Solutions, Hamburg Port Authority (HPA)
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8.30am Arrival networking/breakfast |
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8.50am Welcome and Introductions |
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9am Interactive game/simulation (port & energy systems simulation) game) |
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9.30am Game wrap up followed by panel session |
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10.20am Closing Remarks |
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10.30am Close |
Open to: Those based in and near Hamburg with an interest in port energy, supply, operations, sustainability (academics and industry are welcome to attend). Attendees will gain insight into the challenges and opportunities for port energy (interactive game element) and learn/share insights with esteemed panel and network.