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Zero-Emission Ports: How OPS technology is transforming the maritime business

Onshore power supply (OPS), also known as “cold ironing,” allows docked ships to connect to the port’s power grid, enabling them to turn off their auxiliary diesel generators. The ship then receives the energy it needs directly from shore, ideally from renewable sources. This technology eliminates polluting emissions and greenhouse gases during port stays and reduces noise and vibrations. It also improves air quality in nearby ports and urban areas.

Strategic drivers for the decarbonization of ports

Achieving carbon neutrality in ports requires a holistic vision that incorporates electrification, digital optimization, and the transition to zero- or near-zero-carbon fuels.

• Electrify the docks to allow auxiliary engines on docked ships to be turned off and reduce emissions during their stay.
• Use zero-emission port equipment and consider carbon-neutral solutions using hydrogen for the terminal’s internal fleet, yard trailers, and all types of cranes.
• For the port fleet and regular short-range vessels, consider electrifying support vessels and hybridizing the tugboat, mooring, pilot boat, MARPOL, bunkering barge, and supply vessel fleet.
• Implement digital tools to optimize port calls and minimize waiting times and associated fuel consumption.
• Renewable Energies and Electrical Storage Systems: Integration of renewable energy sources into port ecosystems and installation of electrical storage batteries to stabilize the grid and meet demand.
• Alternative fuels and green maritime corridors involve the introduction of methanol and ammonia, which are backed by green corridors that guarantee logistics and a secure supply.

OPS systems have become one of the primary measures for advancing decarbonization goals in the maritime sector.

Maritime sector transformed by new regulations, economic pressure, and environmental demands

In Europe, progress toward decarbonizing maritime transport has led to the adoption of OPS systems, which have transitioned from a recommendation to a regulatory requirement for certain ships. The FuelEU Maritime Regulation, which has been in full effect since January 1, 2025, and the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR), require that major EU ports have operational OPS infrastructure by 2030. These regulations stipulate that container and passenger ships over 5,000 gross tons (GT) must use OPS connections to meet their entire electricity demand while in port. This requirement will take effect in 2030 for major ports and extend to all other EU ports by 2035. This will require shipowners and port authorities to adapt their ships and facilities to ensure compatibility and operational availability.

The obligation does not apply equally to all ships. Container ships must connect in ports where they exceed 100 calls per year, while Ro Ro and Ro Pax ships must connect where they exceed 40 calls per year. Cruise ships must connect where they exceed 25 calls per year, given their high energy demand and impact on air quality in urban areas. Recent analyses have shown that cruise ships have one of the greatest impacts on emissions while in port. This has led several organizations, including CLIA, to push for the accelerated implementation of OPS.

This European regulatory framework aligns with current global discussions within the IMO regarding a net zero framework that could include similar obligations for international port calls. The combination of regulatory pressure, international expectations, and social demand establishes the OPS as a pivotal component of ports’ energy transition.

Challenges for implementing OPS systems

Implementing OPS systems presents significant technical challenges, especially regarding the availability of electrical power in ports. For example, a ferry may require around 3 MVA, whereas a large cruise ship may need 16–20 MVA per berth. This is comparable to the demand of a medium-sized wind farm, especially if the port serves several ships simultaneously. These demands require reinforcing substations, medium-voltage lines, and the capacity of the external grid. Furthermore, integrating the cable management system into operating terminals is difficult: the equipment takes up dock space, interferes with cranes or gangways, and requires coordination to avoid slowing down loading and unloading operations. Nevertheless, the experience of some European and U.S. ports demonstrates that the system can operate reliably and significantly reduce emissions.

One of the biggest challenges on the economic front is the financial viability of this infrastructure. Investment costs can be very high and vary greatly depending on the terminal type, power requirements, and connection complexity. Access to financing mechanisms and public subsidies, such as the European Union’s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) funds, is essential to mitigate high initial capital expenditures (CAPEX) and accelerate return on investment (ROI).  Additionally, operating costs associated with electricity consumption, regulated tariffs, energy taxes, and capacity charges can affect economic viability.

Another key challenge is governing the system and defining the operating model because several actors are involved, including the port authority, terminal operator, electricity supplier, distributor, and shipping companies. The choice of model depends on the required level of investment and access to financing, the degree of public control over tariffs and environmental standards, the expected demand profile, and the port’s sustainability objectives.

Despite these complexities, the reality is that the market is evolving rapidly. There are more and more technology providers with consolidated solutions, and investor interest is growing. This is also driven by the commitment of sectors such as the cruise industry. This industry is already actively working to expand OPS connectivity in its fleet and in the ports where it operates.

The transition to OPS is a technical and financial puzzle, but the regulatory clock is already ticking. Is your terminal or port ready for the 2030 horizon? Let’s talk about how to accelerate this transition.