WASHINGTON: With the goal of becoming a zero emissions port by 2040, Ports of Auckland Friday announced that it has commissioned a feasibility study to investigate possible alternatives for powering cruise ships while in port, with particular focus on shore power. The study, which is set to be completed by April 2017, will also examine other alternatives such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) or methanol-powered barges to generate power for use by ships, as well as the use of low sulfur fuels for emissions reductions.
“We have set ourselves the goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2025 and having zero emissions by 2040. This work will support both those goals. Initially we will look at the feasibility of providing alternative power just for cruise ships, but we aim to extend that across the whole port longer term,” said Tony Gibson, Ports of Auckland CEO. “In carrying out the study, we will work closely with Vector to understand the capability of the local grid, and with cruise lines to understand their capabilities and future requirements. In line with Auckland Council’s carbon reduction goals, Ports of Auckland says shore power could help reduce locally generated emissions and shipping’s carbon footprint.
“CLIA and its member cruise lines welcome the feasibility study and look forward to working closely with Ports of Auckland on it,” said Steve Odell, chairman for Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia.”The cruise industry is committed to ensuring that its environmental footprint continues to be minimal through world’s best practice and technology. Our member lines are developing and deploying innovative technologies to reduce emissions and we will be sharing these initiatives with Ports of Auckland.”
