APM Terminals (APMT) Mumbai has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to begin piloting shore power supply in partnership with the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA).

The initiative intends to minimise carbon emissions from vessels while they are in port.

Initially, the shore power station will be powered by the national grid. Once established, the port may acquire green energy via open access for SPS reasons.

The supply will reportedly be activated for two ships at the same time, eliminating the demand for diesel in the port and reducing noise pollution.

APM Terminals’ Global Head of Decarbonisation, Sahar Rashidbeigi said: “Emissions from vessels at berth significantly contribute to poor air quality in and around ports, affecting community and marine health.

“Our efforts to minimise port stay for our customers through operational excellence measures have led to significant savings at many terminals and ports worldwide. With shore power, we have the opportunity to save an additional 40-60 per cent of fuel and associated emissions during a port call.”

The agreement between JNPA and GTI was signed on 22 August in the presence of the Honorable Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.

APMT Mumbai is one of five container terminals that operate at Nhava Sheva’s Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPT), having obtained a 30-year license from the port to perform container handling services at its site.

In July, APMT Mumbai transitioned to 80 per cent renewable electricity this month by commissioning a 10.65 megawatts (MW) captive solar power plant.