Offshore meets Onshore - Delivering local impact : Offshore wind (OW), OW supply chain and port decarbonisation.
The European Onshore Power Supply Association (EOPSA) with the support of the Maritime Battery Forum has releases it’s latest position paper highlighting the crucial role of Onshore Power Supply (OPS) in decarbonizing ports alongside the offshore wind (OW) sector.
The European Onshore Power Supply Association (EOPSA) stresses the importance of port decarbonization in achieving global, European and national climate objectives. Onshore power supply (OPS), also known as shore-side electricity, offers significant benefits to both ports and vessels. By connecting ships to renewable power sources while docked, it significantly reduces emissions of greenhouse gases, air pollutants, vibrations and noise from generators. This leads to improved air quality and a quieter environment in port areas, benefiting both workers, citizens and nearby communities. Additionally, OPS helps vessels reduce fuel costs and comply with stricter environmental regulations.
Overall, it supports the transition to greener, more sustainable maritime operations. OPS is referenced in the Directive 2014/94/EU, albeit this is the first version not yet including comprehensive list of vessels (e.g. fisheries / OW vessels / Port Operation vessels / Tugs etc).
This paper highlights Eopsa’s key messages;
Positive impact on port ecosystems
Diverse vessel involvement
Prioritizing OPS
Aligning with Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA)
Strengthening local economies
EOPSA - European Onshore Power Supply Association urges recognition of OPS, offshore charging, and green anchorage as top-priority non-price norms in offshore wind tenders. By maximizing the synergy between OPS and offshore wind, we can effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
EOPSA, the European Onshore Power Supply Association was established in 2021 to bring together experts in port electrification and shore connections. EOPSA brings together experts from energy generation, shipping companies, port authorities, technology companies, software companies and process experts. EOPSA’s mission is to promote the widespread adoption of onshore power supply as a sustainable solution to reduce noise, vibration and air pollution resulting from the use of fossil fuel engines in port and port city environments.