Galveston Wharves aligns with major partners on shore power project

Galveston Wharves is partnering with major stakeholders through a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work together on developing environmentally beneficial shore power at the Port of Galveston. Uniting the Carnival Corporation, CenterPoint Energy, Royal Caribbean Group, Shell Trading (US) Company, Texas A&M University at Galveston, and Galveston Wharves, the MoU outlines their commitment to build a system to provide shore power to vessels docked at the port, starting with the development of a project schedule, cost estimates, and proposed agreements.

“As a Green Marine-certified port, we recognize shore power as an opportunity to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gases associated with maritime activities,” said Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO Rodger Rees.

“This project working group is our dream team,” he added. “It’s a winning combination with energy infrastructure expertise from Shell and CenterPoint Energy, the experience of major cruise lines Royal Caribbean and Carnival, and the educational and research resources of Texas A&M-Galveston.”

Royal Caribbean Group, and Carnival Cruise Lines, which are the two major cruise lines that have Galveston as their home port, are taking steps to make optimal use of the future shore-power facilities. While building a new cruise terminal at Pier 10, Royal Caribbean outfitted its new construction for when shore power becomes available. Carnival has made a commitment to have all its ships regularly assigned to Galveston as their home port capable of connecting to shore power when it becomes available. The Carnival Jubilee, scheduled to be built this year, is already set to be equipped for shore power.