Northern European ports in collaboration receive EU Funding for onshore power for container ships

The project has a large reduction potential not only of CO₂, but also of heavy metals and nitrogen oxides emitted from containerships moored at the ports.

We are very pleased that the European Commission and the CEF Committee recognize our high ambitions for the green transition. As some of Northern Europe's most important ports, it's fantastic that we can collaborate to reduce the shipping industry's climate footprint, which is a global challenge we face together. OPS for container ships is a crucial part for all the ports involved,

says Anne Zachariassen, COO at the Port of Aarhus and project coordinator.

A major step toward sustainable shipping

The project is a direct response to new EU regulations that will come into effect in 2030, requiring ships over 5,000 gross tonnage to connect to onshore power while moored. Through OPS, container ships will be able to use electricity from the grid instead of generating their own power onboard using diesel engines. This resulting in a reduced climate footprint, cleaner local environments, and improved working conditions in the ports.

1,567 tons of CO2 reduction annually in the Port of Aarhus
The ports in question will use the funds in slightly different ways, but all aim to reduce the environmental and climate impact of moored vessels through OPS.

The Port of Aarhus is the largest commercial port in Denmark, and around 73% of the containers that pass over quay in the country go through.

This means a huge potential in reducing CO2-emissions from container vessels docked at the port. A potential that COO of Port of Aarhus, Anne Zachariassen, looks forward to realizing.

At the Port of Aarhus, our goal is to become carbon neutral by 2030. Flexible shore power facilities like the one we have planned will make a big difference, as it makes it possible for all container vessels with the required infrastructure to connect to green power while docked,

says Anne Zachariassen and continues:

This will also reduce the local particle pollution that occurs, when the ships use diesel generators instead, which is for the benefit of both workers at the port and residents in the surrounding area

By connecting container vessels to shore power facilities, Port of Aarhus expects to reduce CO2-emissions by 1567 tons annually down the line.

Port of Aarhus received €5.29 million in CEF Funds for the project, which covers 50% of the overall cost.