Hurtigruten’s MS Fridtjof Nansen recently made history by becoming the first cruise ship to connect to Reykjavik’s new shore power at the Midtbakki Terminal in Iceland. This move marks a significant step towards reducing emissions during port calls, as the vessel will now utilize renewable electricity sourced locally in Iceland, where a substantial portion of energy comes from renewable sources.
According to Hurtigruten’s managing director for the APAC region, Damian Perry, this initiative aligns with the company’s commitment to providing sustainable expedition cruises. The goal is to make their expedition voyages climate-neutral by 2050. Notably, all of Hurtigruten’s ships are equipped with shore power connections, with MS Maud being the first to use shore power at the Faxagardur Terminal in Iceland last year.
Shore power facilities like the one in Reykjavik are still relatively rare globally, with less than two percent of ports currently offering this technology. However, projections from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) suggest a gradual increase in shore-side power availability, with an estimated three percent of ports expected to have such facilities by 2025.
Working in collaboration with Faxaflóahafnir sf. (Associated Icelandic Ports), Hurtigruten has leveraged its extensive experience with shore power connections along the Norwegian coast to pioneer this innovative development in Reykjavik. The partnership aims to enhance air quality in the harbor and set an example for other operators to follow suit by adopting sustainable practices.
The recent inauguration ceremony for the new shore power connection was attended by key stakeholders, including Halla Hrund Logadóttir, director-general of the Icelandic National Energy Authority Orkustofnun, and the Norwegian ambassador for Iceland, Cecilie Willoch. Willoch emphasized the longstanding cooperation between Iceland and Norway in driving green initiatives and highlighted the importance of collaboration among local authorities, ports, cruise companies, shipbuilders, and the technology industry to promote sustainable solutions.
Ultimately, Hurtigruten’s pioneering use of shore power in Reykjavik underscores the cruise industry’s increasing focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship. By embracing renewable energy sources and cutting emissions during port operations, cruise lines like Hurtigruten are setting a new standard for responsible travel and paving the way for a more sustainable future in maritime tourism.
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