Shore Power

OVERVIEW

The Galveston Wharves, together with Carnival Corporation, CenterPoint Energy, Royal Caribbean Group, Shell Trading (US) Company (“Shell”) and Texas A&M University at Galveston, are working toward potential solutions to develop environmentally beneficial shore power at the Port of Galveston through a non-binding memorandum of understanding. The MOU was announced in late 2022.

The agreement outlines the parties’ intention to develop a project timeline and specifications, as well as cost estimates and proposed agreements, for a system to deliver shore power to vessels docked at the port. Shore power allows vessels to plug into an onshore electrical source for onboard power instead of using auxiliary diesel-powered engines, which produce emissions.

As a Green Marine-certified port, the Galveston Wharves recognizes shore power as an opportunity to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gases associated with maritime activities.

As a top-50 U.S. cargo port and fourth most popular cruise port in the U.S., the Port of Galveston has almost 1,000 ship calls a year. Through Green Marine, a voluntary environmental program for North America’s maritime industry, the port is researching and implementing new programs like shore power for lasting environmental benefits.