Project to install shore power system starts at busy UK port
Work has begun to install a shore power system at Portsmouth International Port that will enable berthed ships to plug into a supply of renewable electricity.
According to the port operator, the Sea Change project will allow multiple ships to plug into a system that provides several electrical frequencies simultaneously.
Up to three ships will be able to plug in at once when the system goes live from spring 2025, allowing them to operate under battery power when entering and exiting Portsmouth harbour.
Works began with the digging of a trench to lay a 600m, 33kV cable underneath the port’s car lanes to connect the system to the electricity supply. The system will utilise an extra 15MVA capacity secured by the port from Scottish and Southern Energy in 2023, which is generated from renewable sources.
The project has been funded with £19.8m from the Department for Transport and £4.6m from Portsmouth City Council, plus a further £3m from the council to secure the power necessary for the system.
Project partner Brittany Ferries has invested €550m to renew five vessels in its fleet, including two new Portsmouth-based LNG-electric hybrid ferries, and will be the main customer using the shore power system.
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