An important step has been taken at the Port of Klaipėda towards a cleaner future. With the installation of shore power supply equipment completed, testing has now begun. Soon, vessels arriving at the port will be able to switch off their engines and contribute to reducing pollution.
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“The Port of Klaipėda’s ambition to become more environmentally friendly is reflected in real actions – shore power equipment has already been installed and is now being tested at two terminals. Quay electrification marks a turning point in port operations, helping to reduce noise from vessels at berth as well as emissions. As we complete the first phase of quay electrification, we are already entering the second phase, where design work is now in progress. We are choosing the path followed by the most advanced ports in the world,” says Algis Latakas, CEO of Klaipėda State Seaport Authority.
Shore power supply equipment has been installed and is now being tested at the Central Klaipėda Terminal and Klaipėda Container Terminal. The latter will operate one unit capable of supplying electricity to vessels, while the Central Klaipėda Terminal will have three. All units will serve ferries operating on international routes and transporting both passengers and cargo vehicles. At the same time, up to four vessels will be able to connect to the system, switch off their engines while at berth, and use electricity supplied from shore.
Funding for the quay electrification project at the Port of Klaipėda has been allocated under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Transport programme of the European Commission. The project, valued at around €10 million, will receive approximately €8.6 million in EU funding.
Another shore power unit was installed at the port’s Fleet Base in September last year. Funded by the Port Authority, it is intended for the new hydrogen and electric-powered waste collection vessel and recently built pilot boats.
In the coming years, similar systems are planned for other terminals, where they will also be available for cruise and container ships. Design work for these installations has already started. The second phase of quay electrification at the Port of Klaipėda is expected to be completed by 2030.
Supplying electricity from shore will help reduce the environmental impact of port operations, decrease the use of fossil fuels, and directly improve the quality of life for the people of Klaipėda.
The Port Authority is consistently investing in solutions that reduce its environmental footprint. Quay electrification is among the most important environmental projects currently underway.