Søren Hansen: A driving force behind the green energy transition in the Ports & Marine industry
Søren Hansen, Market Director at NIRAS's infrastructure business, is an experienced strategist, having 20+ years of experience in the international port industry. With key positions at leading global port operators, Søren combines a deep understanding of operational needs with innovative solutions.
Søren's career has primarily been abroad, where he has developed and operated container ports. His career has encompassed everything from concession negotiations to the execution of multimillion-dollar projects for large operators. Now he looks forward to delivering solutions in collaboration with NIRAS's team of specialists.
Network and collaboration is key
Søren emphasises the importance of having a professional network in the industry, allowing him to engage earlier in projects and deliver tailored solutions from start.
“We work closely with both operators and authorities to create solutions that are tailored to the customers' needs. With my background, I can bridge the gap between customers wishes and our technical expertise. It’s a unique approach that enables us to deliver solutions that create real value,” said Søren.
Søren also highlights the work environment at NIRAS, where strong interdisciplinary collaboration among a diverse group of colleagues serves as a driving force for delivering even better projects to clients.
“What I enjoy the most is working with colleagues from different disciplines and backgrounds. We bridge various areas of expertise and integrate collective knowledge into our projects. This approach enables us to deliver the best solutions to our clients. For example, many of our colleagues are truly skilled at creating 3D models using innovative tools such as BIM (Building Information Modeling) and developing designs that not only function technically, but also support a more sustainable future,” he shares.
"My goal is to help drive the green agenda and ensure that we remain a strong player in infrastructure and port projects. It’s fantastic to be part of a team that values listening, learning, and delivering – always with the customer at the center."
Søren Hansen.
Decarbonising the port industry
“Decarbonisation is one of the most important agendas for the port industry. To future-proof the sector, we need to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions, both through technological innovation and by working closely with stakeholders across the value chain,” said Søren.
Søren clarifies that decarbonisation is more than just using green fuels and that consultants have a unique opportunity to influence both developers and investors.
“If we engage early in the projects, we can challenge traditional solutions, introduce circular materials, and consider whether new infrastructure is even necessary,” Søren explains.
A need for a green transition of the maritime sector
Søren is a strong advocate to the green energy transition in the port industry. According to him, the port industry is a key player in the transition to a sustainable future. Over 80 percent of world trade occurs through ports, which makes it a crucial infrastructure sector that carries a large responsibility regarding climate change.
By investing in new technologies, improving energy efficiency, and sharing knowledge across the sector, the port industry can become a key player in the global effort to reduce CO₂ emissions.
“The maritime sector is traditionally a heavy industry, but there is a great potential for improvements. I am passionate about bringing greener solutions into the port industry, and it’s exciting to see how NIRAS can help operators reduce their CO₂ footprint,” Søren explains.
Søren is particularly focused on highlighting NIRAS's strategic initiative - GREENsition - which aims to promote the green energy transition. He is engaged in pilot projects investigating how ports can be electrified and decarbonised, as well as how energy consumption can be optimised through new collaboration models and technologies.
“My goal is to help drive the green agenda and ensure that we remain a strong player in the infrastructure and maritime sector. I believe that green fuels and innovative solutions are the way forward. It's not just about addressing current challenges, but also about creating a robust and sustainable future for the industry. With the right strategies and investments, we can turn small steps today into large-scale solutions tomorrow,” concludes Søren.
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