SHIPS visiting Sydney will soon have access to the world’s first 100% renewable energy shore powered precinct.
The development is planned for Bays Port, which includes Glebe Island and White Bay. It will be the world’s first bulk shipping precinct to be fully supplied by shore power.
The White Bay Cruise Terminal will become the first shore powered cruise berth in the southern hemisphere.
Shore power is the provision of the shoreside electrical power to a ship at berth while its main auxiliary engines are shut down.
Port Authority of NSW CEO Captain Philip Holliday announced the net zero and shore power plan today with the support of bulk shipping and cruise industry leaders.
“This is an historic partnership with the Port Authority of NSW investing over $60 million to deliver this infrastructure as a first step,” he said.
“Delivering shore power will drive us even further than our already-ambitious NSW net zero targets of a 75% emissions reduction by 2030 and to be net zero by 2040.”
Ports Australia CEO Michael Gallacher said the precinct will reduce air pollution emissions associated with the consumption of fuel.
“With the cruise industry about to resume and 99% of Australia’s trade coming through ports, this announcement is a great start for shore power in Australia,” Mr Gallacher said.
“Through the renewable energy precinct at Sydney’s Bays Port, shore power will remove up to 14,000 tons of CO2 over a 12-month period.”
Ports Australia said 35% of cruise ships globally are fitted to use shore power, and operators of cruise ships and bulk ports visiting Port Authority of NSW berths have pledged to retro fit or build ships with shore power capability.
Minister for transport and minister for veterans David Elliot said the first berth is set to come online in 2024, allowing shore power-capable ships to cut their diesel generators and reduce both pollution and noise levels while in port.
“Shore power is cleaner and quieter, minimising the impact of ships on neighbouring areas and ensuring our last remaining deep water harbour berths continue to operate sustainably into the future,” he said.
Mr Gallacher said the announcement exemplifies how government and industry are partnering to move toward a sustainable future, and that more shore powered precincts can be expected in the future.
