The Port of Oakland has achieved a significant milestone in environmental sustainability by setting a new record for shore power usage during the first six months of 2024. The port reported an impressive average shore power plug-in rate of 94% for ships docking at the Oakland Seaport, a notable increase from the 85% rate recorded for all of 2023. This improvement underscores the Port’s commitment to reducing air pollution and enhancing air quality in the region.
Shore power, also known as cold ironing, allows ships to connect to an electric grid while docked, enabling them to turn off their diesel engines and significantly cut emissions during their stay at port. This technology plays a crucial role in minimizing the environmental impact of maritime operations by reducing vessel emissions to near-zero levels while the ship is berthed.
Colleen Liang, the Port of Oakland’s Environmental Programs and Planning Director, highlighted the significance of this achievement. “Shore power is the single most effective way to reduce vessel emissions when a ship is in port,” Liang said. “We appreciate the ship owners retrofitting their vessels for shore power. We also thank the terminal operators for coordinating and providing labor to physically plug in the ships that call Oakland.”
In May 2024, the Port of Oakland set a new record with a remarkable 99% ship plug-in rate. Since November 2023, shore power usage at the port has consistently exceeded 91%. The Port’s ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance its shore power infrastructure ensure that it is always ready to deliver power to incoming ships.
The Oakland Board of Port Commissioners has played a pivotal role in advancing shore power initiatives. Their leadership extends beyond regulatory requirements, demonstrating a proactive approach to environmental stewardship. This commitment to shore power has delivered substantial local air quality benefits, setting a high standard for other ports to follow.
Looking ahead, the Port of Oakland is planning to further innovate in shore power technology by introducing mobile shore power outlets. This upcoming development would make Oakland the first port in the nation to implement such technology. Mobile shore power outlets will offer vessels greater flexibility in docking and plugging in, addressing challenges that arise when ships cannot easily align with existing stationary plugs. This initiative represents another step in the Port’s ongoing efforts to lead in reducing maritime emissions and advancing sustainable practices.
About the Port of Oakland
The Port of Oakland is a vital hub for economic activity, community benefits, and environmental innovation. As part of its mission to decarbonize operations, the Port is committed to creating a cleaner and greener future. Supporting 98,345 jobs in the region and generating $174 billion in annual economic activity, the Port oversees the San Francisco Bay, Oakland International Airport, the Oakland Seaport, nearly 20 miles of waterfront including Jack London Square, and a publicly owned utility. Through its continuous investment in sustainable practices, the Port of Oakland remains at the forefront of environmental and technological advancements in the maritime industry.
Source Port of Oakland