In a recent move, the Port of Oslo is encouraging emissions-free shipping with cheaper berthing starting in 2026. It is well to be noted that Oslo holds a vision of becoming the most environmentally friendly city port in the world. According to the Norwegian terminal authority, green choices by shipowners are going to mean much lower costs. Apparently, the vessels that sail emission-free in and out of the port are going to be exempt from quay fees while they use the shore power and hence attain a high environmental score, which, by the way, will also earn them extra discounts.
Ships that do not adhere to green solutions are going to pay more.
Ingvar Mathisen, the Port Director, said that the option for zero-emission solutions should indeed pay off. Oslo Port has gone on to invest quite heavily when it comes to green measures like shore power and rewards those who play their part towards environmental responsibility. Einar Marthinussen, the commercial director, added that they are changing the previous discounts in terms of scheduled traffic in order to reward ships that cut emissions. Cargo ships that use shore power are going to get a 20% discount.
The idea is to promote sea transport, which is environmentally friendly. By the end of this decade, Oslo looks forward to cutting emissions by 95%. The target of Oslo Port is 85%.
It is well to be noted that since 2018, Oslo port has invested NOK 225m, which is equivalent to $22.3m, in zero-emission infrastructure, therefore reducing the emissions due to its activities by 26%. There is shore power, which has been installed for cruise ships, bulk carriers, international ferries, and also container ships.
A new facility for cruise ships is going to open at Filipstad in 2026, and shore power when it comes to tankers is getting planned. There are also fast-charging stations specifically for heavy vehicles that have been established at Gronlia as well as Revierkaia. Oslo port opines that shore power along with electric ferries has indeed given good results; however, there should be more measures to be put into place in order to reach the desired targets.
Notably, the next steps include alternative fuels and green transport corridors along with enhanced charging infrastructure. As per Mathisen, they indeed look forward to becoming the most environmentally friendly city port in the world, and that is why they continue to consistently invest in green solutions and also promote emission cuts in order to make sure that Oslo becomes a pioneer city when it comes to sustainable sea transport.
It is worth noting that a 100% discount on quay fees is going to be introduced for ships that practice emissions-free shipping in and out from Steilene.
