HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) achieved a significant milestone in its efforts to reduce emissions by becoming the first cruise company to connect to shoreside electricity in Iceland.
On September 19th, the expedition vessel MS Maud successfully linked to Iceland's power grid at the Faxagardur terminal in Reykjavík. This achievement resulted from a close collaboration between HX and Faxafloahafnir sf (Associated Icelandic Ports).
By utilizing shore power, this custom-built small ship eliminates the need for engine usage, resulting in zero emissions during its stay in port. This connection significantly reduces both fuel consumption and air pollution by utilizing renewable electricity sourced from Iceland. Notably, Iceland derives 85% of its primary energy supply from domestically produced renewable sources, as reported by the Ministry of the Environment, Energy, and Climate.
Since 2021, nearly all vessels in the combined fleet of Hurtigruten Group, which includes HX and Hurtigruten (formerly Hurtigruten Norway), have been equipped with shore power connectivity.
While Hurtigruten Group has established multiple shore power connections in Norway, this marks the Group's first international plug-in. HX is actively working with global ports to implement shore power connectivity in its other operational destinations.
HX is dedicated to supporting Iceland's communities, wildlife, and natural environment. During the summer, the company organized a stakeholder cruise in collaboration with The Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO), bringing together over 50 local stakeholders, including operators, organizations, and government representatives, to develop sustainable travel initiatives in partnership with the community. Additionally, the Hurtigruten Foundation is providing funding for marine macro-litter mitigation through the Skálanes Nature and Heritage Centre.
In addition to participating in beach clean-up efforts, including AECO's inaugural 'Clean Up Iceland' event, the cruise's Citizen Science program contributes to puffin conservation at the South Iceland Nature Research Centre.
In 2024, HX plans to offer six small-ship expeditions in Iceland, with all sailings aboard Maud utilizing shoreside electricity.
HX anticipates that the neighboring Midbakki terminal in Reykjavik will also provide shoreside electricity in the next season, enabling its newest hybrid battery-powered ship - MS Fridtjof Nansen, to also use shore power.