MSC Group is expanding its shore power capabilities significantly, targeting 15 new ports by 2026.
- The expansion plan includes both European and North American ports, enhancing sustainable practices.
- MSC’s ships, including those from Explora Journeys, will utilise shore power where available globally.
- Recent initiatives have seen MSC vessels using shore power in multiple European locations.
- The company’s commitment is part of a broader strategy to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions.
The MSC Group is set to make substantial advancements in its environmental responsibility agenda by expanding its shore power capabilities to 15 new ports between 2024 and 2026. This initiative underscores MSC’s determination to engage proactively in reducing the carbon footprint of its cruise operations.
The ambitious plan includes strategic locations across Europe and the USA, with at least five ports in Italy, and additional ports in Spain, Norway, Denmark, France, the Netherlands, Malta, and Sweden. By incorporating these locations into its network, MSC seeks to enhance its ability to reduce emissions by connecting its vessels to local power grids.
Already in 2023, MSC Cruises has successfully implemented shore power usage at the ports of Southampton and Kristiansand. This summer, the company plans further trials at Haugesund in Norway and additional European ports including Bergen, Alesund, and Warnemunde.
A significant collaboration with Cruise Baltic was also announced, underlined by a memorandum of understanding. This agreement aims to bolster shore power facilities within the Baltic Sea region, which comprises 32 ports dedicated to increasing shore power use.
Furthermore, all vessels in the Explora Journeys fleet are set to be equipped for shore power usage. This complements MSC’s ongoing efforts to retrofit existing ships, ensuring comprehensive integration of shore power capability across its fleet.
Vice-president of sustainability at MSC Cruises, Linden Coppell, remarked on the company’s environmental strategy, highlighting the pivotal role of shore power on the path toward achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions. Coppell also emphasised MSC’s investments in hybrid systems and fuel efficiency, alongside their advocacy for wider adoption of shore power solutions across Europe and beyond.
MSC’s proactive shore power strategy is integral to their environmental goals and broader sustainability commitments.
