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The Port of Québec is developing a 16-megawatt shore power project at Berth 30, aimed at supporting lower emission operations on the Saint Lawrence.
The system will enable compatible cruise ships to connect directly to Québec's hydroelectric grid while docked once it becomes operational in 2028.
This is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at berth by up to 90 percent, representing approximately 70,000 tons of avoided emissions over time, the port said in a statement.
"Our cruise line partners have been very clear about what they need from the ports of the future: reliable infrastructure, meaningful emissions-reduction solutions, and destinations that understand the operational and sustainability pressures they are navigating," said Marie-Andrée Blanchet, director cruise and international development for Port of Québec.
"We listened, and we answered. Shore power at Berth 30 is a direct response to those needs, and it reflects our commitment to supporting our partners, our city, our community, and the future of responsible cruise tourism on the Saint Lawrence."
The project is part of a nearly $70 million investment in Berth 30 and related cruise infrastructure, the port noted.
"Port investments like this are essential to the cruise industry's ability to reduce emissions at berth and continue advancing toward a more sustainable future," said Bud Darr, President and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association.
"Québec's investment in hydroelectric-sourced shore power is important not only for the Port of Québec, but for the broader Saint Lawrence and Canada & New England cruise region. As more ports across the corridor invest in providing shore power, the region becomes an increasingly attractive choice for cruise lines and guests seeking exceptional travel experiences supported by environmentally sound operations."
Similar shore power projects are already operational in neighboring regions, including Montréal and New York, and there are plans for Boston and Charlottetown to introduce shore power as well.
