- The Port of San Diego has committed over $227 million to advance its Maritime Clean Air Strategy (MCAS), driving zero-emission technologies and aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals.
- Major achievements include deploying North America’s first all-electric harbor cranes, supporting the first U.S. all-electric tugboat, and cutting energy costs by 50% through a solar-powered microgrid.
- By expanding shore power, electrifying fleets, and funding community air-quality projects, the Port is setting a model for sustainable and inclusive maritime decarbonisation.
Since its adoption in 2021, the Maritime Clean Air Strategy (MCAS) has become the cornerstone of the Port of San Diego’s commitment to sustainability. Backed by more than $227 million in funding from the Port and its partners, the strategy advances 34 targeted initiatives that directly align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including climate action, clean energy, innovation, and partnerships.
Achievements in Zero-Emission Technology
The Port has recorded measurable progress across its operations. A quarter of its Class 1 and 2 fleet is already powered by zero-emission technology, directly supporting climate action goals. Cargo handling has also seen rapid transformation: half of Dole’s equipment is now electric, with additional commitments from Dole, SSA Marine, and The Pasha Group to deploy 52 more zero-emission vehicles and machines by 2028.
At the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal, a 700-kilowatt solar array combined with a 2,700-kilowatt-hour battery storage system has reduced energy costs by more than 50% while strengthening terminal resiliency. In a series of industry firsts, the Port introduced North America’s first all-electric mobile harbor cranes and supported Crowley’s launch of the United States’ first fully electric tugboat, both of which have cut diesel emissions while boosting efficiency and operational capacity.
Expanding Shore Power and Infrastructure
Another major milestone is the installation of shore power systems, which allow cruise and container ships to plug into clean electricity instead of burning diesel at berth. This initiative has already lowered emissions significantly, with additional shore power capacity for roll-on/roll-off cargo expected by spring 2025. These efforts reinforce the Port’s role in safeguarding local air quality and public health while decarbonizing maritime operations.
Funding, Leadership, and Community Impact
The MCAS is guided by leadership and inclusivity. The Port has doubled its maritime revenue contributions from 2% to 4% to fund community-focused air quality projects. This ensures that the benefits of cleaner operations are shared with surrounding communities, aligning innovation with social responsibility.
Defining the Future of Sustainable Ports
Through a combination of technological innovation, clear outcomes, and collaborative partnerships, the Maritime Clean Air Strategy is redefining what it means for ports to lead the global decarbonisation transition. By proving that sustainability can go hand in hand with operational efficiency, the Port of San Diego is positioning itself as a model for other ports worldwide.
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Source: safety4sea
