To eliminate the use of diesel for powering ships at berth, the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) is investing nearly Rs 1 billion in India?s first pilot project for shore electric power supply. JNPA chairperson Unmesh Wagh revealed that they plan to provide shore electric power supply to ships at one of their terminals at Jawaharlal Nehru Port on a pilot basis, making it the first such project in India.

The pilot project is set to be executed at the third container terminal of Jawaharlal Nehru Port in Maharashtra, which is operated by Gateway Terminals India, a joint venture between APM Terminals and the Container Corporation of India (CONCOR). A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will be signed with all stakeholders on July 11.

Ships at berth typically use diesel engines to generate electricity for essential services such as hoteling, unloading, and loading activities. For example, a mid-sized tanker requires 400 Kw of electricity (excluding power needed for cargo and ballast operations), amounting to 12 MwH of electricity, all of which is currently generated through diesel engines.

Wagh noted that the new facility would enable the simultaneous powering of two ships, eliminating the use of diesel at the port. He added that JNPA already uses shore electric power for its tugs when they are berthed. This project aims to reduce the environmental impact of port operations by providing a cleaner energy alternative.