Portsmouth International Port is set to become a frontrunner in reducing maritime emissions with the initiation of a £27.4M shore power system.
This development marks a significant step forward in sustainable port operations in the UK, allowing ships to connect to clean electric power while docked.
Dubbed the Sea Change project, this initiative will be the first in the UK to offer simultaneous electrical power in multiple frequencies for multiple ships. The new system, expected to be operational by spring next year, will enable up to three ships to plug in at once. This capacity allows vessels to turn off their engines while docked and rely on battery power to navigate in and out of Portsmouth harbour.
To facilitate this, work has begun on the installation of a 600m, 33kv cable beneath the port’s car lanes, linking the system to the electricity grid. The port secured an additional 15MVA capacity from Scottish and Southern Energy in 2023, ensuring the power is sourced entirely from renewable energy.
The project has garnered financial backing amounting to £19.8M from the Department for Transport and £4.6M from Portsmouth City Council, with the council contributing an extra £3M to ensure the necessary power is secured.
In addition to the electrical installations, significant engineering work is being undertaken across the three berths to incorporate a flexible cable management system. This will accommodate ships of varied dimensions, enhancing the port’s versatility and capacity.
AtkinsRéalis has been a key partner throughout the project, having led civil and structural design, assisted in managing procurement and supplier collaboration and advised on planning permissions and environmental assessments, among other services.
Meanwhile, Brittany Ferries, a key partner in the Sea Change project, has invested €550M (£455M) to renew its fleet, including two liquid natural gas (LNG)-electric hybrid ferries based in Portsmouth, poised to benefit from this development.
Brittany Ferries anticipates the launch of two new vessels early next year, which will immediately utilise the new system. The upgraded port facilities will also cater to any cruise ship equipped for shore power that docks in Portsmouth.
The initiative, beyond its operational benefits, is expected to enhance air quality for local residents. Project estimates suggest a significant environmental impact, with the potential to prevent approximately 20,000t of CO2e emissions from 2027 onwards. This aligns with broader governmental and local efforts to mitigate climate change impacts and promote sustainable development practices within the maritime industry.
AtkinsRéalis UK & Ireland project manager Peter Walbridge said: “Integrating shore power systems at large ports like Portsmouth International Port is difficult due to their complex technical requirements, but this groundbreaking milestone shows what can be achieved with advanced digital modelling and close collaboration.
“Leveraging our multidisciplinary expertise and industry relationships, we helped the port navigate its legacy infrastructure and coordinate diverse stakeholders to keep this ambitious project on track.
“Sea Change represents a potential tipping point for the industry and its net zero journey, serving as a blueprint for other UK ports seeking to implement clean energy solutions, ultimately reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality.”
Maritime minister Mike Kane said: “UK shore power is crucial in making the sector greener and that’s why it’s fantastic to see this £19.8M help decarbonise one of the UK’s busiest ports.
“Plug-in technology is key to reducing domestic shipping emissions, and I know that ports across the UK are already working on decarbonisation plans.”
Portsmouth City Council cabinet member for climate change and greening the city Kimberly Barrett said: “The Sea Change project will mean the port, its customers and the city as a whole can all make large strides towards our ambitious sustainability goals, and it’s really exciting to see work now taking place.
“The shore power system will have the potential to help the port avoid 20,000t of carbon emissions per year from 2027, and importantly, improve air quality for Portsmouth residents.
“Portsmouth is leading the way when it comes to innovative, sustainable technology and this is a huge opportunity for the city and also the industry to learn from the Sea Change project.”
Brittany Ferries CEO Christophe Mathieu said: “An integrated approach to sustainability is essential if shipping is to achieve net zero by 2050. Ship owners, fuel companies, port partners and government bodies all have a role to play and this is why the Sea Change project is so important. It allows the potential of our plug-in hybrid ships to be realised
