Government investment in shore power infrastructure has the
potential to greatly reduce carbon emissions and air pollution, according to a
new report commissioned by the British Ports Association (BPA).
Shore power projects can be difficult and expensive, with
few (if any) moving forward in any locality without some form of government
backing. The payback periods are long, and the ROI is often uncertain. Ports
are often constrained by a lack of grid capacity in their area, along with the
complex regulatory structure of the energy system. These factors contribute to
high costs and can make adoption difficult.
The environmental benefits, however, are quite clear. Shore
power is an effective method of reducing health-hazardous air pollutants (like
NOx and particulate matter) in seaport communities, and for this reason it is
mandatory at smog-prone Southern California ports. It is also a means of
decarbonizing one element of vessel operations, assuming that the electrical
power is from a sustainable source. The UK is rapidly expanding its offshore
wind capacity, making its electrical power grid less carbon-intensive.
The report argues that these benefits could be realized if
shore power were addressed in the UK government's soon-to-be-released Transport
Decarbonization Plan. The needed policy changes would include:
- An investment fund to support the development of shore
power projects by 2025;
- Reductions in electricity taxes for shore power to allow
it to compete with untaxed marine diesel fuel, as seen in Germany, France,
Denmark and Sweden;
- A commitment to enact a zero-emission regulatory standard
for vessels in port; and
- A commitment to enabling port electrification and smart
grids through changes to grid planning and regulation.
“Ports and the maritime sector are committed to reducing
emissions and playing their crucial role in a net zero future for the UK.
Today’s research shows the hunger from industry to increase electrification of
its activities," said Tim Morris, the CEO of the UK Major Ports Group.
"Government needs to back its ambition and targets with investment support
and improvements to the energy system."