UK government to explore shore power in ports

Speaking at the UK Chamber of Shipping Dinner on 7 February, Maritime Minister Robert Courts said shore power has the potential to cut carbon emissions and improve air quality around UK ports.

Courts said: “Climate change is one of the biggest challenges this generation faces, and we will continue to lead international efforts to decarbonise the maritime sector.

“Shore power will end the outdated practice of ships keeping their engines running while anchored in port, reducing the poisonous fumes entering the air and ensuring we meet our net zero 2050 goals.”

The minister launched a call for evidence on shore power which will run from 7 February through 25 April 22.

Mark Simmonds, Director of Policy & External Affairs for the British Ports Association, said:

“This call for evidence is a step forward and will help us all better understand the current barriers to delivering more shore power to ships. We look forward to sharing the sector’s experiences so far and exploring how industry and government can work together to lower emissions in ports.”

Tim Morris, CEO at the UK Major Ports Group, said: “Shore power has the potential to play a positive part in the future of zero emission maritime, although it is an area that currently faces some significant challenges. The Call for Evidence is therefore an important step in finding the right, viable ways that industry, Government and networks can work together to support the wider deployment of shore power where it is an appropriate solution.”

The minster said that technologies like shore power bring economic as well as environmental benefits, spurring investment in research and development and in the UK’s coastal communities.

The UK’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition pledged £23m in 2021 to fund over 55 decarbonisation projects, and in the same year the country launched the Clydebank Declaration on green corridors at COP26.

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