New ship-to-shore power facility launches

Schneider Electric has connected the first container ship to a shore electrical power system at the Port of Vancouver’s DP World Container Terminal.

Commissioned by the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority to design a solution to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG), air emissions and noise from ships docked at Centerm Container Terminal, Schneider Electric Canada developed the Schneider Electric EcoStruxure Platform.

Docked ships using the new platform can shut down their diesel engines and instead be powered by a plug-in electrical shore power connection, helping to reduce air pollution. The system, which is standards compliant, was designed and commissioned by Schneider Electric Canada and PBX Engineering of Vancouver, and installed by Houle Electric.

The shore power capability also qualifies a ship for the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority’s EcoAction program, providing discounted harbor dues and the opportunity to be recognized with a Blue Circle Award.

“As Canada’s largest and busiest port, we must balance growth in trade with the need to protect our environment and respect the quality of life of our neighbors. Shore power is just one of the ways we are working toward improving air quality and reducing marine shipping emissions,” said Tom Corsie, vice president real estate at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. “Over 60 hours of shore power use, one large container ship will reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by an anticipated 95 tonnes and save about 31 tonnes of fuel. This not only helps the environment, but also positions British Columbia’s trade sectors to take advantage of growth opportunities and ensure our competitiveness in this market.”