
Shore power solutions are a game-changer for the shipping industry. They allow ships to plug into shore power while in port, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.
Studies have shown that ships can reduce their carbon footprint by up to 95% when using shore power. This is a significant reduction, considering the impact of shipping on the environment.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set a goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from shipping by at least 50% by 2050. Shore power solutions can play a crucial role in achieving this goal.
Shore power technology is becoming increasingly efficient, with some systems able to recharge a ship's batteries in as little as 2 hours.
What Is Shore Power?
Shore power is a smart electricity solution for ships docked at the port.
Shore power uses electricity generated onshore instead of electricity generated by onboard generators.
This way, shore power can meet the energy needs of the ship, reducing emissions and noise by not having to use auxiliary engines to generate power.
Other terms for shore power include Alternative Marine Power (AMP), Onshore Power Supply (OPS), cold ironing, shore connection, and shore power connection.
These terms are typically used for IEC-80005 standardized plug solutions, which ensure that the vessel will be able to get shore power in any commercial port.
What Is?
Shore power is a smart electricity solution for ships docked at the port. It uses electricity generated onshore instead of electricity generated by onboard generators.
Shore power can be used to charge the energy storage system on board the ship, reducing the need for onboard generators. This decreases emissions and noise.
Shore power is also known by other terms, including Alternative Marine Power (AMP), Onshore Power Supply (OPS), cold ironing, shore connection, and shore power connection. These terms are typically used for IEC-80005 standardized plug solutions.
Some common terms for shore power include:
- Alternative Marine Power (AMP)
- Onshore Power Supply (OPS)
- cold ironing
- shore connection
- shore power connection
Shore power ensures that vessels can get power in any commercial port, thanks to standardized plug solutions like IEC-80005 (IEEE SA - IEEE/IEC 80005-1-2019).
What Is Work?
So, what is work in the context of shore power? It's the process of converting electrical power from the grid to a format that's usable by ships. This conversion happens in an e-house or container in the port, where the power grid feeds in at 8kV, 50Hz.
The power conversion system, which includes a converter, transformer, cooling, and fire fighting system, takes this power and converts it to the IEC standard, which is 60Hz. For most vessels, this is 6.6kV or Direct Current for battery charging.
The cable handling system then lifts these heavy cables up to the ship, where an incoming panel is installed in a confined room. The operator connects the ship to shore power, and the power is often via a transformer connected to the main switchboard.
The Wärtsilä shore power control system and built-in safety features ensure safe and seamless operation.
Benefits and Advantages
Damen's B-Shore power frequency converter can match any shore facility to your vessel, ensuring a connection to shore power anytime, anywhere. This unique solution can be fastened on deck or installed at your home port.
Connecting to shore power offers multiple connection voltages for worldwide grid coverage, making it ideal for shore-to-ship and ship-to-shore connections. This flexibility is a major advantage of shore power solutions.
Using shore power also contributes to lowering your emission footprint, as it reduces the need for onboard generators. This is a significant benefit for ship owners who want to reduce their environmental impact.
Here are some of the key advantages of shore power:
- Multiple connection voltages for worldwide grid coverage
- Ideal for shore-to-ship and ship-to-shore connections
- Contributes to lowering emission footprint
- Generator fuel savings
- No hull damage thanks to galvanic isolation of both shore and ship’s electrical system
- Significant cost savings on docking and repair costs
- Balances unstable shore power grid
Benefits Globally
Connecting to shore power has many advantages, but what if the facility doesn’t match your vessel's electrical power requirements? This problem led to the development of the B-Shore power frequency converter, a class-approved solution that matches any shore facility to your vessel.
The B-Shore power frequency converter ensures a connection to shore power anytime, anywhere. It can be fastened on deck or installed at your home port, making it perfect for shore-to-ship and ship-to-shore connections.
This solution provides a flexible and reliable way to connect to shore power, regardless of the facility's electrical power requirements. The B-Shore power frequency converter is a game-changer for vessel owners who need to operate in different parts of the world.
Advantages

Using shore power has numerous advantages that benefit both the environment and your wallet. It allows for multiple connection voltages, providing worldwide grid coverage.
One of the significant benefits is that it's ideal for shore-to-ship and ship-to-shore connections, making it a convenient option for vessels.
By using shore power, you can contribute to lowering your emission footprint, which is a great step towards a more sustainable future.
You can also enjoy generator fuel savings, which can lead to significant cost savings over time.
A major advantage is that shore power prevents hull damage due to galvanic isolation of both shore and ship's electrical systems.
This means you won't have to worry about costly docking and repair costs, which can be a huge relief for ship owners.
Shore power also helps balance unstable shore power grids, providing a more stable and reliable power source.
How It Works
The Watts Marine Shore Power System is a game-changer in maritime power technology, protected by pending patents. This innovative solution integrates three revolutionary innovations to create the industry's most comprehensive and reliable shore power solution.
Our shore power-equipped vessels can seamlessly connect to clean electrical power at the port, eliminating the need for diesel engines during the stay. This results in zero emissions, making it an environmentally friendly option.
Our proprietary automation system prepares for seamless power delivery by configuring optimal power parameters for the specific ship class. This ensures a secure and efficient connection between the vessel and shore infrastructure.
Multiple layers of protection activate automatically, including advanced protection relays and redundant safety systems, to ensure a safe electrical connection. This gives you peace of mind knowing that your vessel is protected.
The vessel seamlessly transitions from diesel engines to shore electricity, allowing all onboard systems to run on clean shore power. This completely eliminates emissions during the port stay, making it a more sustainable option.
Our intelligent system generates detailed performance reports for each shore power connection, tracking energy consumption (KWH), connection duration, and vessel details. This helps you measure the environmental impact of your shore power usage.
Here are some key benefits of our shore power solutions:
- Zero emissions during port stays
- Seamless transition from diesel engines to shore electricity
- Secure and efficient connection between vessel and shore infrastructure
- Detailed performance reports for each shore power connection
Components and Systems
Shore power solutions typically involve a combination of electrical and mechanical components.
A shore power system consists of a power source, such as a grid connection or a shore power converter, which supplies electrical power to the vessel.
The shore power converter is a critical component that ensures the vessel's electrical system can safely accept the shore power supply.
The shore power converter typically includes a transformer, which steps down the high voltage shore power to a lower voltage acceptable to the vessel's electrical system.
A shore power management system is used to monitor and control the shore power supply, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
The shore power management system can also provide real-time monitoring of the vessel's electrical system, helping to identify potential issues before they become major problems.
A shore power connection system, which includes a shore power inlet and a power cord, is used to connect the vessel to the shore power supply.
The shore power connection system must be designed to meet the vessel's electrical requirements and ensure safe and reliable operation.
A shore power conditioning system, which includes components such as voltage regulators and surge protectors, is used to condition the shore power supply and ensure it meets the vessel's electrical requirements.
The shore power conditioning system helps to prevent damage to the vessel's electrical system and ensures safe and efficient operation.
Implementation and Regulations
Shore power solutions are becoming increasingly important as a way to reduce emissions and operate more sustainably.
For inland vessels, shore power is available at many locations, and mobile applications can help identify these spots.
In fact, various ports and marinas are already equipped with shore power infrastructure, making it easier for vessels to plug in and power up.
However, for ocean-going ships, there are currently no public locations with shore power available, but efforts are underway to change this.
We're working with partners to make shore power a reality for ocean-going vessels, which will not only reduce emissions but also improve air quality and reduce noise pollution.
What Regulations Are There

For inland vessels, shore power is mandatory when docked at a location with a shore power cabinet available.
Starting from 2023, there are bans on the use of generators in various ports.
Shore power is not yet obligatory for ocean-going vessels, but the goal is to achieve 90% adoption by 2030 for Ro-Ro, passenger ships, and container ships.
Where Is Available?
For inland vessels, shore power is available in many locations, and mobile applications can help identify these spots.
In fact, there are numerous locations where shore power is accessible for inland vessels. You can find these locations using various mobile apps that provide this information.
For ocean-going ships, however, there are no public locations yet where shore power is available.
Who Provides?
Quay owners who have a shore power facility provide the shore power themselves.
Companies like Cavotec and Shore-Link supply shore power systems for the quay and the ship.
Pon Power can provide the energy solution for your shore power facility when the grid connection is insufficient.
Our advisors are ready to assist you with your questions and requests regarding shore power solutions.
Cost and Subsidies
Installing shore power solutions can be a costly endeavor, with upfront costs ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 or more, depending on the size of the vessel and the type of system chosen.
The high upfront cost is a major barrier to adoption, which is why governments and regulatory bodies are offering subsidies to encourage the transition to shore power.
In the European Union, for example, the EU has set aside €10 billion in funding to support the transition to shore power and other green technologies.
This funding can be used to cover up to 50% of the costs associated with installing shore power systems.
By providing financial incentives, governments can help to reduce the financial burden on shipowners and operators, making it more feasible for them to invest in shore power solutions.
Preparation and Planning
Before you can take advantage of shore power solutions, you need to prepare your ship. A provider of electrical systems can assist with this.
To start, your ship must be electrically prepared for shore power. This means making some necessary adjustments to ensure a safe and efficient connection.
Getting your ship shore power ready can seem daunting, but with the right help, it's a manageable task.
How to Prepare My Ship

Preparation and Planning is key to a smooth and safe voyage. The first step is to ensure your ship is electrically prepared for shore power, which can be assisted by a provider of electrical systems.
To prepare your ship, you must have a basic understanding of its electrical systems. This includes knowing the type of electrical system your ship has and whether it's compatible with shore power.
If your ship is not already equipped with a shore power connection, you'll need to install one. A provider of electrical systems can help with this installation.
Regular maintenance is also essential to keep your ship's electrical systems in top working order. This includes checking for any signs of wear or damage on your ship's electrical components.
Preparing for Implementation
Before diving into the actual implementation, it's essential to have a clear understanding of the project scope, timeline, and budget. This will help you avoid costly surprises and ensure that everyone involved is on the same page.
A detailed project plan should include specific goals, objectives, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure progress. This will help you stay focused and make data-driven decisions.
Having a well-defined project scope will also help you identify potential roadblocks and develop contingency plans to mitigate risks. This will give you peace of mind and allow you to adapt to changing circumstances.
Regular communication with stakeholders is crucial to ensure that everyone is informed and aligned with the project's progress. This can be achieved through regular meetings, progress reports, and clear documentation.
A thorough risk assessment will help you identify potential pitfalls and develop strategies to mitigate them. This will help you avoid costly surprises and ensure the project stays on track.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared for implementation and set yourself up for success.
Technical Considerations
Shore power solutions require a deep understanding of electrical systems to ensure safe and efficient operation.
The voltage and frequency of shore power systems are typically 120/240V and 60Hz, respectively, which is the same as the standard household electrical supply in many countries.
To accommodate the varying voltage and frequency of shore power systems, vessels often require a transformer or converter to match the onboard electrical system.
The size and type of transformer or converter needed depend on the vessel's electrical load and the shore power system's characteristics.
A shore power system's capacity must match the vessel's electrical load to prevent overheating and electrical shock.
The electrical load of a vessel can be estimated by calculating the total power consumption of its appliances and systems.
The shore power system's capacity can be determined by multiplying the vessel's electrical load by a safety factor, typically 1.25 to 1.5.
The electrical load of a vessel's appliances and systems can be categorized into three main groups: lighting, heating, and machinery.
The electrical load of lighting is typically the smallest component, ranging from 1 to 5 kilowatts.
The electrical load of heating systems can be significant, especially in cold climates, and can range from 5 to 20 kilowatts.
The electrical load of machinery, such as air conditioning and refrigeration systems, can be substantial and can range from 5 to 50 kilowatts.
Case Studies and Examples
In the Port of Seattle, shore power solutions have been implemented to reduce emissions from cruise ships. The Port has installed over 100 shore power connectors, allowing ships to plug in and reduce their fuel consumption by up to 90%.
The Port of Seattle's system uses a combination of diesel-electric and alternative energy sources to power ships. This approach has been shown to be effective in reducing emissions and improving air quality.
The city of Vancouver has also implemented shore power solutions, with 12 berths at the Canada Place cruise ship terminal equipped with shore power connectors. This has resulted in a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from cruise ships.
Customer Cases
Wärtsilä has delivered more than 150 shore power solutions to ships.
Their shore power solution was the reference for the Long Beach port, which became the first to make shore power mandatory.
The world's largest zero-emissions lightweight catamaran ferry, ordered by Buquebus and built by Incat Tasmania, will have the world's largest DC shore charging system.
Development Stories

Pon Power is at the forefront of the energy transition, making ports more sustainable with shore power.
Shore power is a game-changer for ports, offering a cleaner energy solution that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and noise pollution.
Shore power works by connecting ships to the power grid while at berth, eliminating the need for diesel generators.
This innovative solution is crucial for reducing carbon emissions in ports, which are among the most polluting areas in the world.
Pon Power's focus on shore power is a testament to its commitment to a more sustainable future.
The future of shore power looks bright, with many ports and shipping companies already adopting this technology.
Solutions and Products
The igus Mobile Shore Power Outlet is a great option for long-distance travel, allowing you to travel up to 800 meters or more.
This solution is not only convenient but also cost-efficient, making it a great choice for those looking to save money in the long run.
Its modular design also makes it easy to install and maintain, giving you peace of mind and reducing downtime.
Here are some key features of the igus Mobile Shore Power Outlet:
- Travels of 800 m and more possible
- Long service life & cost-efficient
- Modular design
Module
When selecting a shore power module, consider the required power, frequency(s), and voltage(s) of your installation. A suitable module will be selected based on these specifications.
A shore power module is an integrated system consisting of a container housing a transformer and an inverter. This allows for a direct connection to the ship, making it a convenient option.
If a direct connection is not possible or convenient, a connection box can be used to link the shore power module to the ship.
Igus for Terminals & Vessels
Igus for Terminals & Vessels offers a range of solutions for the marine industry.
Their Mobile Shore Power Outlet is designed for long-distance travel, allowing for journeys of 800 m or more.
This product has a long service life and is cost-efficient, making it a great investment for terminals and vessels.
The modular design of the Mobile Shore Power Outlet makes it easy to install and maintain.
Compatible Solution
The B-Shore power converter is a great solution for vessels with an installed power up to 64A-250A. It's compatible with a wide range of power levels.
This solution can be used even if your fleet changes over time. The B-Shore plug and play solution can be connected to power within just 2 hours.
Reducing Emissions and Environmental Impact
Using a shore power connection can reduce emissions, and there are 49 more ways to do so in a fascinating eBook.
Shore power reduces noise pollution in port areas by providing green electricity to ships at their berth.
Shore power decreases the emission of fine particulates and greenhouse gases, improving air quality.
Pon Power offers custom-made shore power solutions that work both today and tomorrow, taking care of everything from initial analysis to installation and maintenance.
A shore power connection can always supply ships with electricity, even when there is no or insufficient grid capacity.
By switching off onboard generator sets, shore power reduces emissions and improves air quality in port areas.
Sources
- https://www.igus.com/industry/shore-power
- https://www.wartsila.com/marine/products/ship-electrification-solutions/shore-power
- https://www.watts-marine.com/shore-power-solution
- https://ponpower.com/en-nl/energy-solutions/shore-power
- https://www.damen.com/equipment/green-solutions/b-shore-power-converters
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