Port of Klaipėda advances shore power electrification rollout

The Port of Klaipėda has moved into the testing phase of its shore power rollout following completion of installation works at two key terminals.

Port of Klaipėda advances shore power electrification rollout

Once operational, the system will reportedly allow vessels at berth to switch off auxiliary engines and draw electricity directly from shore, reducing local emissions and noise impacts.

Shore power equipment has been installed and is currently being tested at the Central Klaipėda Terminal and Klaipėda Container Terminal.

The container terminal will operate one shore power unit, while the central terminal will be equipped with three units.

The infrastructure is designed primarily to serve ferries operating international passenger and RoRo services. Up to four vessels will be able to connect simultaneously, enabling zero-emission hotel power while alongside.

Algis Latakas, CEO of Klaipėda State Seaport Authority, said: “The Port of Klaipėda’s ambition to become more environmentally friendly is reflected in real actions; shore power equipment has already been installed and is now being tested at two terminals.

“Quay electrification marks a turning point in port operations, helping to reduce noise from vessels at berth as well as emissions. As we complete the first phase of quay electrification, we are already entering the second phase, where design work is now in progress. We are choosing the path followed by the most advanced ports in the world.”

The €10 million ($11.7 million) project is co-funded through the European Commission’s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Transport programme, which contributes around €8.6 million ($10.06 million) to the rollout.

An additional shore power unit has already been installed at the port’s Fleet Base, supporting electrically powered and hydrogen-assisted port service vessels, including waste collection and pilot boats.

Further expansion is planned in the coming years, with container terminals expected to be integrated into the system. Design work for phase two is already underway, with full completion targeted for 2030.

Once fully deployed, the shore power network is expected to significantly reduce fuel consumption at berth, lower emissions from auxiliary engines, and improve air quality in surrounding urban areas.

The project forms part of Klaipėda’s broader infrastructure modernisation strategy, with quay electrification positioned as a core component of the port’s long-term decarbonisation pathway and compliance with tightening European emissions standards.

Recently, the Port of Klaipėda State Seaport Authority reached the final stage of its green hydrogen station project, with a construction completion certificate now issued.