European ports transition to carbon-neutral energy: A multiple regression analysis

• Attention to energy transition in EU ports aiming at emissions reduction. • In-depth review on carbon–neutral energy generation technologies applicable to ports. • Ensemble the stakeholder theory in port context regarding carbon–neutral technologies. • Differences in perception of carbon neutrality within the European Ports. This paper focuses on sustainable initiatives in the maritime industry, specifically energy transition in EU ports. Our research aims to apply the stakeholder theory in port contexts, to examine the influence of different actors on the adoption of carbon–neutral energy generation technologies, from a port-employee perspective. To that aim, the proposed conceptual model is empirically tested through a survey among port employees, following the identification of applicable technologies via a literature review. Specifically, six types of energy generation technologies that advance the goal of carbon neutrality are identified, and likewise, following the stakeholder theory approach, we identified six categories of relevant stakeholders, perceived as external or internal. By means of a multiple regression analysis, we assess the influence of stakeholders identified regarding the carbon–neutral generation technologies. The results corroborate the suitability of the stakeholder approach for assessing port environments. The findings suggest the existence of different perceptions among port employees regarding the various technologies, while stakeholder influence can be either positive or negative depending on the type of technology. Among the stakeholders involved, customers and competitors appear as most influential. The main contribution of our results derive of tackling the differences in perception of carbon neutrality within the European Ports, and the carbon–neutral technologies in ports contributing towards carbon neutrality. By providing a more thorough understanding regarding the influence of diverse stakeholders in promoting carbon neutral energy generation technologies, this study can serve as a guideline for future research and be of value for practitioners in the field.