Ferry sector calls for more shore power funding

Shipping executives at the European Shipping Summit’s side seminar, Shore Power offers promising carbon cuts – are we on track?, called for a significant expansion of funding for shore power infrastructure.

The seminar, co-hosted by Interferry and CLIA, took place on 19 March in Brussels.

The panel discussion, moderated by Stena AB’s Claes Berglund, drew numerous policy makers and regulatory stakeholders from the European Parliament and Commission, alongside ferry and shipping executives.

Executives stressed current funding models often focused solely on the onshore power supply (OPS) connection at berth, underplaying the importance for ferries to be able to charge their onboard batteries for electric drives on their crossings. They argued for a shift in focus. This includes funding for the entire energy supply chain from the power plant to the port, including investment in the port’s electrical grid and overall energy infrastructure.

"This is a very important discussion," underlined Interferry director of regulatory affairs Johan Roos. "Investment in OPS infrastructure is key to the energy transition of European and worldwide ferry operations, supporting the adoption of battery technology and reducing the reliance on the limited resources of alternative fuels. Focusing only on the vessel in port misses the bigger picture. We need a robust power supply to charge the propulsion batteries on the ships, so that we can tap into the full technological potential of OPS."

Mr Roos further added, "The energy infrastructure in many industrialised countries needs a more coherent view, and this includes the importance of electric transport and shipping. Funds must be allocated to upgrade the entire port infrastructure, and member states of the European Union can lead the way here and set the benchmark for global development."

Interferry chief executive Mike Corrigan emphasised the organisation’s commitment. "The ferry industry is a driver in the development of sustainable propulsion solutions for the entire shipping industry, as we can see from the large number of projects and investments made by our member companies. Shore power is a cornerstone of our industry’s decarbonisation efforts, and we must ensure funding supports the full scope of infrastructure needs. We need a holistic approach to achieve meaningful carbon reductions."

Interferry advocates for regulatory frameworks that recognise the unique operational requirements of ferry shipping. The association believes strategic investment in shore power and port energy infrastructure is essential for a sustainable maritime future.