California expands cruise shore power provision

The order will see Cavotec provide shore power technologies for the expanded cruise facility, enabling vessels to connect directly to the local electrical grid while berthed.

“This order demonstrates both the strong confidence that customers have in our shore power technology and our ability to support large marine infrastructure projects,” says David Pagels, CEO of Cavotec.

“We have delivered shore power systems to this customer before and are excited to be part of the next phase of the cruise terminal development.”

Continued investment

The contract includes Cavotec’s PowerMove, PowerFeed and PowerCover technologies, with delivery scheduled for the third quarter of 2027.

Cavotec’s package is designed to reduce emissions and onboard engine noise for cruise ships, supporting sustainability targets linked to cruise operations and wider port infrastructure development.

On a wider scale, the project forms part of continued investment in shore power capabilities as ports seek to accelerate decarbonisation and comply with tightening environmental regulations affecting the maritime sector.

Shore power systems are increasingly being deployed across global cruise terminals as ports expand port electrification infrastructure to cut local air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) strictly mandates that cruise ships use shore power (or an equivalent approved emission control strategy) for the duration of their visit at all regulated California ports. This rule has been enforced since January 2023.