Shore Power Project Signals Seattle's Commitment to Cleaner Ports
Sustainability, City Light, Arts & Culture Committee 6/7/2024
Seattle City Council members engaged in a lively debate last week on the Port of Seattle's ambitious plan to electrify cruise ship and container operations at Terminal 46 and Pier 66. The $75 million shore power project aims to curb diesel emissions by allowing large vessels to plug into the electrical grid rather than running auxiliary engines while docked.
"This project shows that we are serious about transitioning our ports to cleaner technologies," said Council President Sara Nelson during the June 6 Sustainability Committee meeting. "Reducing air and water pollution from ships' diesel exhaust will benefit the health of port workers and all Seattle residents."
If approved, the project would install high-voltage cables and transformers to deliver electricity to cruise ships at Pier 66's two berths. It would also upgrade infrastructure at the container terminal to enable plug-in capability. Phil Ambrose of City Light outlined how the port authority's funding, combined with a 30-year operating agreement, could support electrifying additional berths over time.
Not all councilmembers embraced the plan's high price tag, however. "We need to ensure taxpayers see a return on this investment through lower emissions," said Councilmember Robert Kettle. "What guarantees do we have that cruise lines and shipping companies will actually use these shore power systems?"
Port representatives said most major lines have committed to utilizing shore power based on its availability. Community groups also spoke in favor, with the Sierra Club's Danielle Bauss stating that reducing diesel particulate matter could prevent respiratory illnesses, especially in overburdened Duwamish neighborhoods.
After further discussion on utilization projections and cost recovery, the committee voted to advance the proposal to the full council. If approved, the shore power project would cement Seattle's leadership in transitioning maritime operations to cleaner energy—a move that could reduce health risks for frontline communities while keeping the port competitive.