The use of Shore Power, also known as Onshore Power Supply (OPS) or cold ironing, is rapidly growing internationally as one of the key decarbonisation pathways.

While low-carbon or clean fuels will provide the main energy source for propulsion for ocean going vessels (OGVs) during transit, vessels at berth still require electricity for a range of essential operations such as crew air conditioning, pump operation, cargo handling equipment etc. Instead of burning vessel fuel, low carbon electricity can be supplied from the shore grid.

In addition to reducing carbon emissions, the use of OPS can significantly reduce pollutants such as sulfur oxides (SOx) and particulate matter (PM) emissions, and modestly reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx) in ports.

The technology can be adopted across different vessel types, including:

OGVs - e.g. liner trade such as containerships and cruise vessels;
River trade vessels (RTVs) - e.g. cargo vessels;
Harbour crafts - e.g. tugs and ferries.