Canada’s Marine Shore Power Technology Program
Canada’s Marine Shore Power Technology Program
The shore power technology program for ports in Canada, also known as marine shore power, is a $27.2 million dollar program. It allows marine vessels to plug into a local electrical grid when their vessels are docked at a port. Instead of having ships idling and releasing emissions, they will use the port’s electricity for power. The ships, who dock at ports with shore power, will not burn diesel fuel. All of the power needed on the vessel will come from the electrical grid that it is plugged into.
First announced in January of 2012, the goal was to improve Canadian air quality by reducing emissions around marine ports. The Canadian government has committed to reducing emissions, air pollution and greenhouse gases by 17% before the year 2020. Transportation is the largest contributor to emissions, so having electrical power at port docks will help to reach this goal.
Benefits of Shore Power Technology
The Shore Power Technology for Ports program will increase competition in Canadian ports. It will also create new jobs across Canada and present new opportunities for expansion in Canadian tourism. The program will attract new businesses to Canadian ports, because it will significantly reduce diesel fuel costs to ship operators.
Halifax Port Authority Signs Up
In January of 2013, the Halifax Port Authority announced that it was undergoing construction for a shore power system. They are proud to announce that once the system is ready, ships will be able to dock and plug in to the electrical power grid. This will allow the ships to then shut down their engines. This has many benefits for Nova Scotia. Those benefits will include a reduction in emissions, which will help the environment and air quality for the surrounding residents. Since ports are usually close to cities, this particular benefit is important. Another great value for the province will be the increase in economic prosperity.
Transport Canada’s Marine Shore Power Program ran from 2007 to 2012. The Transport Canada funded $2 million dollars to Port Metro Vancouver, so they could effectively create shore power for cruise ships. Additionally, Transport Canada funded $1.6 million dollars for shore power to the Port Authority of Prince Rupert, so container ships could dock and plug into their electrical power grid.
Applying for Funding
The Canadian government made an official judgment for proposals on May 4, 2012. Ports may continue to apply for funding until December 31, 2015. In order to apply, the port must submit a project proposal and a funding application. Eligible participants have to be Canadian Port Authorities and the companies that own or operate marine ports or terminals in Canada.
The shore power program for Canada will reap many benefits, especially with reducing emissions from ships idling and burning diesel fuel. This may also be a great step toward reducing the use of fossil fuels for energy.
