Port of Oakland Sets Record in Shore Power Usage

In the first six months of 2024, the Port of Oakland set a new record for shore power usage, with an impressive 94% of ships connecting to the port’s electric grid. This is a significant improvement compared to the 85% plug-in rate for all of 2023. The increased adoption of shore power technology at the Oakland Seaport has contributed to cleaner air quality in the region.

Colleen Liang, the Port of Oakland’s Environmental Programs and Planning Director, highlighted the importance of shore power in reducing emissions while ships are docked. “Shore power is the single most effective way to reduce vessel emissions when a ship is in port,” said Liang. She expressed gratitude towards ship owners for retrofitting their vessels and terminal operators for coordinating the labor required to connect ships to the grid.

Environmental Benefits of Shore Power

Shore power technology allows ships to turn off their diesel engines and connect to an electric grid while docked. This results in near-zero emissions during their stay at the port. In May, the Port of Oakland achieved a record 99% plug-in rate, and shore power usage has remained above 91% since November 2023. The port’s commitment to maintaining and improving its shore power system ensures that it is always ready to deliver electricity when ships arrive.

Leadership and Innovation in Emission Reduction

The Oakland Board of Port Commissioners has been instrumental in promoting shore power usage, even for vessels not mandated by regulations to connect. Their efforts have significantly improved local air quality. The Port of Oakland continues to invest in shore power enhancements and plans to install mobile shore power outlets in the future. This innovative technology would make the Port of Oakland the first in the nation to offer such flexibility, addressing challenges where ships have difficulty aligning with stationary plugs. This initiative exemplifies the Port’s role as a leader in technology and emissions reduction in maritime operations.