Work is underway to install shore power at Berth 3 at Scottish Montrose Port, with operations set to go live in February 2025.
Once the installation is complete, 30% of the port’s berths will be electrified , allowing offshore energy support vessels to connect to Plug Montrose, a shore power facility that has been developed in partnership with Norwegian shore power specialist Plug.
Back in late 2022, Montrose Port Authority and Plug Shore Power entered into a 50/50 joint venture to become the first Scottish port to offer shore power to offshore energy vessels.
By connecting to shore power instead of relying on traditional diesel engines to power onboard functions, vessels will be able to significantly reduce emissions while at berth, particularly as the electricity supplied through Plug Montrose comes with a Renewable Energy Guarantee of Origin (REGO).
This initiative is said to be a crucial step in reducing the environmental impact of port operations and supporting the decarbonization of vessel operations.
Plug Montrose has identified numerous benefits of shore power to the maritime sector, including reduced emissions, energy efficiency, improved welfare and sustainability leadership.
In related news, Montrose Port Authority became last year the first port in Scotland to provide a shore power service for offshore energy supply vessels which will greatly reduce harmful emissions, noise pollution and fuel consumption. In May 2024, the port authority said that the shore power facility became operational on berths 1 and 2, following a significant upgrade to the port’s substation and quayside infrastructure carried out by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN).
The inaugural connection to the facility during the testing phase was made by the Norwegian vessel, Magne Viking, from Viking Supply Ships.