Ports can reduce emissions by using electric power provided via the national grid. This includes the electrification of port equipment and facilities and the provision of shore power. The latter allows ships to plug into the electrical grid, reducing emissions from vessels while at berth.
Ports play a pivotal role in the entire global supply chain. This role fulfilled by a port is greater than simply being part of the supply chain. UNCTAD regards a port ‘as not only a transport and digital node but also an energy hub in the general ecosystem’.
As an energy hub, ports can take a proactive role in the broader transition to more sustainable practices through the use of alternative energy types, electrification and the use of smart technologies.
Interest in port electrification across the globe is clear. Particularly in Europe, the United States, and China, with numerous port authorities actively seeking ways to reduce the carbon footprint of their ports. For example, The Biden Administration announced in May 2023 an additional $4 billion in funding for programmes to support electrification of US ports and reduce emissions. In October 2022, the Port of Long Beach in California was awarded $30 million for the replacement of diesel yard tractors with approximately 60 electric yard tractors. Florida was also recently awarded $23.5 million for a range of electrified equipment, and Portland, Oregon received $24.3 million to replace electrical components and enable future zero-emission operations.
In Europe, commitment to port electrification is also strong. The Port of Barcelona has invested €110 million in its Nexigen project, which is focused on onshore power supply (OPS) systems. The project supports the port’s goal of electrifying all cruise berths and ferry terminals by 2030. Rotterdam is also committed to shore power, having expanded its stake in Rotterdam Shore Power, a joint venture between Eneco and the Port Authority, from 20% to 50% in April 2023 to boost the availability and supply of shore power.
The Port of Tyne in England and the Port of Valencia in Spain have also committed to electrification projects. Valencia’s Onshore Power Supply (OPS) initiative aims to boost the supply of power and become emission neutral by 2023. The Port of Tyne wants to become all electric by 2040 and is making headway. So far, they are moving their diesel handling equipment to low carbon electricity. Once completed, this will include a first for a UK port to successfully convert an existing diesel powered Liebherr mobile harbour crane to be fully electric.
Current challenges for ports in the transition to electric power include the lack of maturity in infrastructure. Not all ships are equipped with shore power facilities so even if ports provide the power supply, it may go unused if vessels lack the facilities to plug in. Some ports are looking to third party suppliers to help manage the transition. An upgrade of the electrical network and infrastructure is essential.
For a more in-depth understanding of the topics covered in this article, refer to our latest report in partnership with Ericsson, Getting Ports to Net Zero. This comprehensive guide provides an introduction to port emissions reduction and why advanced networks such as 5G must be considered as part of the journey to net zero.
