Commissioner Louis E. Sola participated on the Power Up Your Shore Power Plan panel at Seatrade Cruise Global where he discussed the need for shore power support across the maritime industry.
Specifically, he highlighted the differences between Port of Mobile and PortMiami to demonstrate the challenges of shore power infrastructure. While PortMiami has successfully implemented shore power, smaller ports like Mobile require more support from industry leaders to drive sustainable solutions for the maritime industry. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, shore power can reduce NOx emissions at least 95% compared to traditional diesel generators.
The primary challenge in implementing shore power is securing government support and funding for enhanced port infrastructure. The Seatrade Cruise Global event provided a forum for industry experts to discuss potential economic resources and sustainable solutions for the maritime sector.
Commissioner Sola joined this panel alongside Ole Christian Fiskaa, Port Director, Port Authority of Alesund/Sula/Norway; David Matsuda, Principal, Matsuda & Associates; Mike Watts, Principal, Watts Marine; and Jan Swartz, Executive Vice President, Strategic Operations, Carnival Corporation. The panel took place on April 9, 2024, in Miami, FL.
Louis E. Sola is a Commissioner with the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission. The thoughts and comments expressed here are his own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Commission.