NORTH AMERICA

Canada encourages clean energy at ports

9 years ago

The Government of Canada has provided $5m of funding for the Port of Montréal Authoritys shore power project, set to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by allowing ships to shut down their diesel engines and link up to an electrical grid provided by forms of renewable energy.

The newly-finished development has also seen contributions from the Government of Quebec and Montréal Port Authority, at a project cost of $11m.

Canada’s Shore Power Technology for Ports contribution program is giving up to $27.2m of funding to Canadian port authorities, terminal operators and ferry operators to back the implementation of marine shore power technology.

The venture also supports application of North American Emission Control Area requirements for the use of cleaner forms of energy.

Shore power allows ships to take advantage of a cleaner, powerful energy source at a cheaper price and will support a drop in greenhouse gas emissions by around 2,800 tonnes a year.

“The Government of Canada is committed to maintaining a safe, efficient and green transportation system,” Canada’s Minister of Transport Marc Garneau said.

“By taking action to reduce greenhouse gases and air pollution, we are improving the lives of Canadians while investing in the future of cleaner transportation.

“New and emerging technologies are laying the groundwork for Canada’s present and future economic growth.”

Five developments have been completed in Canada since the launch of the Shore Power Technology for Ports program, including the Port of Montréal venture.

The country’s government is also funding the fitting of shore power facilities at two terminals at the Port of Vancouver.