Portsmouth gets better connected shoreside

The shore power project is all part of the port’s plan to rach its target of net-zero by 2030 and become the UK’s first zero-emissions port by 2050. Crucially, for the local community, it will also have a hugely positive impact on air quality in the port and surrounding areas.

“Through its Sea Change project and ambitious emissions-reduction targets, Portsmouth International Port is taking a proactive approach to environmental sustainability,” said Marcus Martelin, head of decarbonisation services, ABB Marine & Ports.

“To be selected as technology provider for this UK Government-funded project is a privilege and reflects our reputation as a trusted provider of shore connection capabilities for cleaner port operations.”

Joined-up thinking

The new system will allow vessels to turn off their engines while at berth, avoiding annual carbon dioxide emissions for the vessels calling at the Portsmouth International Port by an estimated 20,000 metric tonnes from 2027. 

ABB’s installation will serve two ferry berths – each with five connection points – and an additional berth shared by ferries and cruise ships.

Full scope of supply for the shore connection system comprises a 16-MVA ACS6080 drive with shunt filter, MV switchgear, power-factor compensation, transformers, e-houses, cable management systems and automation.

In addition, ABB will provide installation, cabling and commissioning services, while Portsmouth International Port will also benefit from a three-year maintenance agreement.

As part of the project, the port’s biggest customer, Brittany Ferries, will be introducing two new LNG-electric hybrid ferries from 2025 which will be the largest vessels of this type in the world.

Alongside Portsmouth International Port and Brittany Ferries, ABB will join a consortium of academics, marine specialists and UK technology SMEs have been brought together to deliver the project. The University of Portsmouth, MSE International, B4T, IOTICS and Swanbarton will all contribute technologies and expertise that will support the project.

Sea Change is part of the Zero Emissions Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) competition, which was announced in February 2023, funded by UK Government and delivered in partnership with Innovate UK. 

The system is due for installation in the fourth quarter of 2024 and expected to be operational by the second quarter of 2025.