MSC Cruises continues to propel its dedication to environmental sustainability with the successful implementation of shore power for MSC World Europa ship in Valetta Harbour Malta - a groundbreaking achievement as the first operational shore power facility in the Mediterranean.
This strategic move aligns with the company's commitment to embrace shore power wherever feasible, integral to MSC's overarching goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Shore power enables a ship to link to the local power grid, eliminating the need to run the ship's engine while docked, thereby eliminating direct emissions during port stays.
The initial tests conducted earlier this year at Valletta have provided valuable insights, contributing to the refinement of the shore power implementation process. Going forward, MSC World Europa will regularly connect to shore power facilities during its calls in Valetta, with weekly visits scheduled throughout the entirety of the next year and 2025.
Since 2017, every new addition to the MSC fleet has been equipped with a shore power connection, and plans are underway to retrofit existing ships. The company has increased the use of shore power electricity as more ports introduce these facilities. The historic connection in Valetta follows successful implementations in Northern Europe, including Warnemunde Germany, Norway's ports Bergen, Alesund, and Haugesund, and Southampton England UK. Earlier this year, MSC inaugurated a new shore power facility in Kiel Germany and aims to expand its shore power plan to include at least 15 new ports between 2024 and 2026.
Acknowledging the significance of collaboration with ports and regions in achieving sustainable maritime practices, MSC has signed a MoU to enhance shore power facilities in the Baltic Sea area, with similar commitments in progress for other Mediterranean ports.
MSC World Europa, MSC's first LNG-powered vessel, stands out as one of the top-performing large passenger ships globally in terms of CO2eq emissions per passenger. Representing a significant stride towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, MSC World Europa is also at the forefront of incorporating solid oxide fuel cell technology, with trial tests showing promising results in advancing sustainable shipping operations.