Hapag-Lloyd Expands Shore Power Use in the Port of Hamburg
- 8 hours ago
- 2 min read
Hapag-Lloyd has signed an agreement with the Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) to expand the use of shore power across all container terminals in the Port of Hamburg. The initiative represents another important milestone in the company's decarbonization strategy and supports the port's ambition to reduce emissions from ships while they are berthed.
A Commitment to Cleaner Port Operations
Under the agreement, Hapag-Lloyd has committed to using the available shore power infrastructure whenever operationally possible. Instead of relying on auxiliary diesel generators while docked, vessels will connect directly to the local electricity grid, significantly reducing emissions of carbon dioxide (CO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), particulate matter, and noise.
Integrating Onshore Power Supply (OPS) into daily vessel operations demonstrates Hapag-Lloyd's long-term commitment to more sustainable shipping and cleaner port environments.
Growing Shore Power Capability Across the Fleet
Hapag-Lloyd has already equipped approximately 35% of its fleet with shore power capability, allowing a growing number of vessels to benefit from cleaner energy while in port.
In recent weeks, the container ships Al Muraykh and Tihama, operating on the Asia–North Europe NE2 service, successfully connected to shore power during their calls in Hamburg, demonstrating the practical implementation of the technology.
Supporting Hamburg's Climate Goals
The Port of Hamburg has invested heavily in expanding its shore power infrastructure. Since the first shore power facility for container vessels became operational in 2024, additional installations have been introduced across the port.
The Hamburg Port Authority plans to make shore power available at all major container terminals, contributing to its long-term objective of achieving a climate-neutral port by 2040. The increased availability of shore power enables shipping companies like Hapag-Lloyd to reduce their environmental footprint without compromising operational efficiency.
Environmental Benefits of Shore Power
When ships are connected to shore power, they can switch off their onboard auxiliary engines while maintaining essential onboard systems such as refrigeration, lighting, ventilation, and cargo operations.
This technology delivers several important benefits:
Lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Reduced air pollution in and around port communities.
Less engine noise during port stays.
Improved air quality for workers and nearby residents.
Lower fuel consumption while vessels are berthed.
These advantages make shore power one of the most effective measures for reducing emissions during port operations.
Strengthening Hapag-Lloyd's Sustainability Strategy
The agreement with the Hamburg Port Authority aligns with Hapag-Lloyd's broader sustainability objectives, which include reducing greenhouse gas emissions throughout its operations and investing in cleaner technologies.
As more ports expand their shore power infrastructure and more vessels become technically equipped to use it, shore power is expected to become a standard component of environmentally responsible shipping operations. The initiative also complements international efforts to decarbonize the maritime industry while supporting compliance with increasingly stringent environmental regulations.
Looking Ahead
Hapag-Lloyd's decision to integrate shore power into its regular vessel operations demonstrates how collaboration between shipping companies and port authorities can accelerate the transition toward greener maritime transport.
With a growing share of its fleet already capable of using shore power and Hamburg continuing to expand its infrastructure, the partnership sets an example for sustainable port operations worldwide. As the maritime industry moves toward lower-emission logistics, investments in technologies such as shore power will play a crucial role in achieving long-term environmental and operational goals.
Image source: hapag-lloyd.com