PortMiami debuts world-class emissions-reducing shore power system

On Monday, leaders with Miami-Dade County, Carnival Corporation & plc, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Royal Caribbean Group, Virgin Voyages and Florida Power and Light Company celebrated PortMiami’s Shore Power Project, a visionary endeavor that sets a bold new standard for environmental stewardship in the industry.

When complete, the momentous project will introduce five shore power systems to PortMiami, allowing cruise ships to connect to the local power grid. This will eliminate the need for vessels to run their engines while berthed and significantly reduce air emissions and pollution. The systems will provide shore power for cruise ships at Terminals A (Royal Caribbean International), B (Norwegian Cruise Line), F (Carnival Cruise Line), V (Virgin Voyages) and MSC Cruises.

The combined shore power system is the largest on the U.S. east coast, demonstrating PortMiami’s commitment to resilience and leading the way for industry-wide sustainability.

“The decisions that we make today will shape the legacy we leave for generations to come, and the PortMiami Shore Power Project is at the forefront of this transformative journey,” said Helga Sommer, PE, chief of engineering at PortMiami. “This project reduces our carbon footprint, embraces the principles of environmental stewardship and redefines the role that ports play in the global energy landscape.”

Among the partners in this landmark project, WSP, a leading engineering, environment and professional services firm, served as engineer of record, working with the Florida Power and Light Company and various manufacturers, suppliers and cruise lines throughout the project. WSP has been engaged on the team since October 2021 and completed the design in March 2022.

“This impressive project enhances the port’s resilience to climate-related impacts and raises the bar across the entire industry when it comes to commitments toward energy, sustainability and excellence,” said Jerry Jannetti, PE, WSP business line executive, Transportation and Infrastructure. “WSP extends its congratulations to Miami-Dade County, PortMiami, the cruise lines and all partners involved in the activation of this landmark system, which will serve as a blueprint for future shore power initiatives.”