Sweden's Port of Helsingborg is set to make a significant stride toward sustainability with the planned launch of its first onshore power supply (OPS) facility for container vessels, scheduled for fall 2026. This initiative aligns with the port's long-term strategy to eliminate fossil-based operations, following a 2019 ruling by the Environmental Permit Authority that mandated shore power availability for container ships within seven years. Developed in collaboration with Actemium, the new OPS facility will offer a capacity of up to 3.5 megawatts, meeting the energy needs of typical feeder boxships and adhering to international standards.

This development builds on the port's existing shore power connection for ferries and reflects a broader push across Europe to reduce port-side emissions. Bart Steijaert, CEO of Port of Helsingborg, hailed it as a "major milestone" in the port's climate transition, while Gunnlaugur Grettisson of Eimskip Sweden emphasized its role in cutting emissions upon vessel arrival. However, progress in OPS adoption remains slow, with a DNV study revealing that only 20% of the EU's required infrastructure is currently installed. To meet 2030 climate goals, the EU may need to significantly expand its shore power capabilities, a challenge echoed by the uncertain implementation of mandates for larger vessels.

Northern ports like Hamburg, Gothenburg, and Stockholm, which have secured EU funding, are leading the charge, with Hamburg planning to mandate OPS for cruise ships by 2027 and Stockholm opening its second cruise OPS site in May 2025. Helsingborg's move positions it as a key player in this green transition.

Resource: https://www.offshore-energy.biz/

by Sara Kosmajac