India's first Pilot Project for Shore Power - JNPA
India’s first pilot project for shore-electric-power-supply is being set up by the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) to eliminate the use of diesel for powering ships that berth at its port. This initiative involves investing close to ₹100 crore and will be executed at the third container terminal of Jawaharlal Nehru Port in Maharashtra. The project aims to provide shore electric power supply to ships while they are berthed, significantly reducing diesel usage and associated pollution. During the pilot phase, the facility will power two ships simultaneously, and if successful, JNPA plans to expand it to all terminals, requiring a total of 74 MW. The shore power will be sourced from the national grid, benefiting both the environment and port operations.
Shore power, also known as cold ironing or alternative maritime power, offers several environmental benefits:
1. Reduced Air Pollution: By allowing ships to turn off their diesel engines while docked and connect to shore-based electricity, shore power significantly reduces emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulphur dioxide (SO2), and particulate matter. These pollutants contribute to poor air quality and health issues in port cities.
2. Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Shore power reduces the carbon footprint of ships by eliminating the need to burn fossil fuels for onboard power generation. This contributes to global efforts to combat climate change.
3. Noise Reduction: Ships’ engines can be noisy, especially when berthed close to residential areas. Shore power eliminates engine noise during port stays, benefiting nearby communities.
4. Health Benefits: Cleaner air resulting from reduced emissions improves public health by lowering the incidence of respiratory diseases and other health conditions associated with air pollution.
5. Compliance with Regulations: Many ports and countries have regulations or incentives encouraging the use of shore power. Adopting this technology helps ships comply with environmental standards.
Thus, shore power promotes cleaner air, quieter ports, and a more sustainable maritime industry.
Additionally, implementing shore power involves several technical requirements. Here are the key aspects:
- Grid Connection: A connection to the national grid, typically carrying electricity at 20-100 kV from a local substation. This power is then transformed to 6-20 kV for use at the port terminal.
- Cabling: Cables are needed to deliver the 6-20 kV power from the substation to the port area.
- Power Conversion: In some cases, power conversion equipment (such as frequency converters) may be necessary to match the vessel’s electrical requirements.
- Vessel Modifications: Ships need appropriate connectors and onboard systems to connect to shore power.
However, barriers include infrastructure costs and electricity expenses.
Below we have some successful examples of shore power implementation:
- U.S. Ports:
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has assessed shore power technology at U.S. ports. Shore power enables vessels to turn off their engines while berthed and connect to the local electricity grid for auxiliary systems. The EPA’s Shore Power Technology Assessment provides valuable insights for port operators and stakeholders.
- Notably, the U.S. Navy has successfully used shore power for decades as part of its Incentivized Shipboard Energy Conservation program.
- Norway, The Netherlands, and Italy:
- These countries have thriving shore-to-ship power markets, demonstrating successful adoption of this technology.
- Operational Lessons Learned:
- Ports like New York & New Jersey, Seattle, Hueneme, and Los Angeles have practical experience implementing shore power programs. Lessons learned from these ports contribute to successful implementation.
The challenges of implementing shore power alternatives.
- Infrastructure Costs: Setting up the necessary infrastructure for shore power can be expensive. Ports need to invest in grid connections, cabling, and power conversion equipment.
- Compatibility: Ships must be modified to connect to shore power. Ensuring compatibility between various vessel types and power supply systems can be complex.
- Electricity Expenses: While shore power reduces fuel costs, it introduces electricity expenses. Balancing these costs requires careful planning.
- Berth Availability: Shore power is effective when ships frequently return to the same port. Availability of berths equipped with shore power connectors is crucial.
- Regulatory Challenges: Coordinating regulations across different ports and countries can be challenging. Harmonizing standards facilitates global adoption.
Despite these challenges, the environmental benefits and long-term savings make shore power an attractive solution for sustainable port operations.
Accelerating the adoption of shore power in India requires collaborative efforts from various stakeholders:
- Port Authorities and Operators:
- Promotion and Investment: Port authorities can actively promote shore power adoption by creating awareness among shipping companies and investing in necessary infrastructure.
- Incentives: Offering incentives (such as reduced port fees) for ships using shore power can encourage adoption.
- Shipping Companies:
- Education: Shipping companies need to understand the benefits of shore power. Awareness campaigns and workshops can help.
- Vessel Modifications: Collaborating with shipyards to modify vessels for shore power connectivity is crucial.
- Government and Regulatory Bodies:
- Policy Support: Clear policies and regulations supporting shore power implementation are essential. These can include emission reduction targets and financial incentives.
- Standardization: Harmonizing technical standards across ports and regions simplifies adoption.
- Electricity Providers:
- Infrastructure Development: Collaborating with port authorities to develop grid connections and ensure reliable shore power supply.
- Pricing Models: Offering competitive pricing for shore power can encourage uptake.
- Environmental Organizations and NGOs:
- Advocacy: Raising awareness about the environmental benefits of shore power and advocating for its adoption.
- Research: Conducting studies on the impact of shore power and sharing findings with stakeholders.
- Research Institutions and Academia:
- Innovation: Collaborating on research and development of efficient shore power technologies.
- Training Programs: Offering training to port personnel and ship crews on shore power systems.
- Local Communities:
- Engagement: Involving nearby communities in discussions and addressing any concerns related to shore power facilities.
By fostering collaboration among these stakeholders, India can accelerate the transition to cleaner and more sustainable port operations.