Why shore power?

It is estimated that approximately 15-20% of greenhouse gas emissions from global shipping occur
while vessels are docked.

Shore power, which involves ships using electricity from the shore power grid while docked, therefore plays a crucial role in the transition to zero-emission energy sources.

Ports around the world are now deploying shore power to remain competitive and comply with environmental requirements.

DRIVING FORCES

EU Fit for 55 regulation

Fit for 55 is the EU’s major climate package with the aim of cutting emissions by 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels. The package will ensure that the EU reaches its overall goal of climate neutrality by 2050.

Fit for 55 introduces a number of measures that directly affect ship traffic and port infrastructure:

  • The EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) is being extended to shipping, with a gradual phase-in where ships over 5,000 gross tons must pay for CO₂ emissions from 2024.

  • FuelEU Maritime (sub-package):

    • Calls for a gradual increase in the use of low- and zero-emission fuels in shipping

    • Mandatory shore power for passenger and container ships in major EU ports from 2030

  • Infrastructure requirements: Ports need to facilitate electrification, shore power and alternative fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia.

  • CBAM (carbon tariffs) can affect ports indirectly, by changing the flow of goods and logistics solutions.

In sum, this means that ports inside and outside the EU must invest in green infrastructure now – to be competitive, meet the requirements and attract emission-free vessels. Solutions such as shore power and emission-free energy supply will no longer be a choice – but a prerequisite for operations and growth.

FuelEU Maritime

FuelEU Maritime is the EU’s new regulatory framework to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from maritime transport by promoting cleaner fuels and shore power. The regulations apply to both EU and non-EU vessels calling at ports in the EU.

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Industry requirements

The shipping industry itself is now also pushing for faster development of green infrastructure in ports, and demanding solutions that make it possible to reduce emissions when ships are docked.

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SHORE POWER OFFERS SIGNIFICANT ADVANTAGES

REDUCED GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
When ships connect to shore power, they can turn off the diesel engines that would otherwise be running to generate electricity on board. This leads to a significant reduction in emissions of greenhouse gases such as CO₂, as well as other harmful substances such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur dioxides (SOx).
IMPROVED AIR QUALITY
By eliminating emissions from ships’ auxiliary engines while at berth, shore power contributes to better air quality in port areas. This is particularly important in ports close to cities, where local air pollution can have negative health consequences for the population.
SIGNIFICANT NOISE REDUCTION
The use of shore power reduces noise from ships at berth, especially in low-frequency areas that are often perceived as most annoying. Measurements have shown that noise levels can be reduced by up to 15-18 decibels, providing a significant improvement for the local environment.
ECONOMIC BENEFITS
A modern facility makes the port and the region more attractive to the cruise industry and other green shipping. This can attract more calls, giving the port opportunities for increased revenue.
LOWER OPERATING COSTS FOR SHIPOWNERS
The use of shore power reduces energy costs and maintenance needs for ship owners and operators.
FLEXIBILITY FOR ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES
A modern shore power system can be adapted and expanded to support new forms of energy, such as hydrogen production, as well as battery charging and power supply for larger ships with special needs (“high-voltage cold power”). This gives the port a central role as a technological hub in the transition to green shipping.