As global shipping moves toward decarbonization, retrofitting container ships with shore power capabilities is emerging as a crucial solution. With regulations such as FuelEU and the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) now in place, and with similar policies on the horizon in China and India, shipowners are under growing pressure to adapt their fleets. Shore power retrofits, which allow ships to switch off their auxiliary engines while docked and connect to the local electric grid, are proving to be one of the most effective ways to reduce carbon emissions and meet regulatory demands.
The Push for Shore Power: Compliance and Beyond
Shore power, also known as “cold ironing,” offers several key advantages, particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By shutting down engines while at berth, vessels can drastically cut fuel consumption and CO2 output—potentially saving between 5 and 40 tonnes of CO2 per ship, per port call. This technology not only helps achieve International Maritime Organization (IMO) environmental goals but also enables shipowners to avoid fines and penalties in regions where emissions regulations are strict.
Cavotec, a leader in shore power technology, is currently retrofitting six container ships, continuing a project that will conclude in 2025. According to Cavotec’s vice president of product management, Laurent Dupuis, “The pressure to retrofit existing fleets will remain strong until 2030. By then, most ships calling at ports in Europe, California, and Asia will have been retrofitted.”
Tailored Solutions for Each Ship
While the benefits of shore power are clear, the process of retrofitting ships is complex and requires a tailored approach. Mr. Dupuis notes that no two ships are alike in terms of engineering, deck space, or electrical systems, meaning each retrofit must be customized. Cavotec has pioneered key equipment such as the AMPReel cable reel and AMPTainer, used by over 700 container ships, and their engineering teams provide a complete turnkey retrofit service—from concept development to installation and commissioning.
The cost of retrofitting, which can range from €800,000 to €1.5 million, depends on factors like the ship’s age, route, and remaining active life. These considerations are critical when deciding which vessels to retrofit and when, especially with ship operations and market conditions in constant flux.
VURDHAAN’s Role in Supporting Maritime Sustainability
As a leader in sustainability consultancy, VURDHAAN is actively engaged in helping the maritime sector navigate these transformative changes. Our expertise in regulations such as FuelEU Maritime and MARPOL enables us to support shipowners with compliance strategies and technical guidance on retrofitting vessels for shore power. We help maritime companies integrate environmentally friendly technologies like shore power, biofuels, and e-methanol, reducing their carbon footprint while ensuring long-term operational efficiency.
Our comprehensive approach—from compliance to implementation—ensures that shipping companies are not only meeting current regulatory demands but also positioning themselves for future success as the industry continues to evolve toward sustainability.
Opportunities for Maintenance and Operational Efficiency
Beyond reducing emissions, shore power retrofits offer an additional benefit: improved maintenance opportunities. With auxiliary engines shut off during port stays, ship operators can perform routine maintenance on key equipment without needing to schedule an unproductive stop. This “opportunistic maintenance” can increase the longevity of engines and reduce overall downtime, contributing to cost savings in the long run.
Conclusion: A Future Powered by Shore Power
The momentum behind shore power retrofitting will continue to grow as more regulations take effect and shipowners seek to reduce their carbon emissions. While the initial investment in retrofitting may be significant, the long-term benefits—reduced fuel consumption, fewer emissions, and greater compliance with international regulations—make it a sound strategy for a sustainable future.
As Cavotec continues to lead in retrofitting projects and shore power technology, the shipping industry is poised to make significant strides toward greener operations. By 2030, a substantial portion of the global container ship fleet will be equipped to connect to shore power, making the industry’s environmental goals more attainable than ever.
Through the adoption of shore power technology and collaboration with experts in sustainable shipping solutions, the maritime industry can achieve its decarbonization targets while continuing to operate efficiently and competitively in a rapidly changing world.