Lerwick Harbour to expand shore power network with new project

Lerwick Port Authority, in partnership with state-owned public corporation Caledonian Maritime Assets (CMAL), is developing a shore power facility at Holmsgarth Berth 3 to supply electricity to ferry operator NorthLink’s vessels during port calls.

IMAGE: A NorthLink vessel at Lerwick Harbour. Lerwick Port Authority

The facility will enable the vessels to switch off their onboard generators and connect directly to the port's electrical grid while berthed, reducing emissions.

The project expands Lerwick Harbour's existing shore power network in response to growing demand. At Mair's Pier alone, high-capacity shore power connections have delivered nearly 9 gigawatt-hours of electricity since they were installed, with annual consumption averaging about 1.7 gigawatt-hours in recent years.

The installation is expected to take around 14 months from the award of the initial contract.

The project is fully funded by CMAL and Transport Scotland, CMAL's chief executive, Kevin Hobbs, said.

Earlier this year, Lerwick Port Authority awarded contracts to engineering firm Frank L Johnston (Shetland) and marine engineering company ABB Marine & Ports UK (ABB) to carry out the mechanical and electrical works. Marine consultancy Arch Henderson, part of Haskoning, is leading the project's design and construction.

By Tuhin Roy

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