Portsmouth Port readies itself for shore power

PiP’s SEA CHANGE project will design, build and operate a shore power system across the three busiest berths at the port allowing visiting ferry or cruise ships to turn off their engines when at berth.

“This exciting new initiative aligns with Portsmouth’s commitment to address climate change. By showcasing a local response to a global challenge, Clean Maritime Portsmouth highlights the importance of regional efforts in contributing to broader international climate goals,” said Dr David Hutchinson, associate professor in environmental innovation at the University of Portsmouth.

Partnership project

Partners in the project alongside Portsmouth International Port include Portsmouth University, Brittany Ferries, MSE International B4T, IOTICS and Swanbarton.

The project has been awarded funding from the Zero Emissions Vessels and Infrastructure competition (ZEVI). It is funded by UK Government and delivered in partnership with Innovate UK.

It’s anticipated hat ships will be able to ‘plug-in’ on three berths at the port from April 2025.

The project will also allow the port to take advantage of the further green shipping corridors announced by the UK Transport Secretary at COP28.

“As a port with bold sustainability ambitions, we welcome the government’s further commitment to establishing green shipping corridors with our European partners and beyond,” said Steve Watkyns, technical director at Portsmouth International Port.

”Combined with our central, well-connected location on the south coast, it makes us an ideal UK base to establish a green corridor from.”