The Ship Emission Mitigation Technology Assessment and Business Case produced by consulting firm Moffat & Nichol indicates that with the installation of shore power at two berths at Pier B, which welcomes 75 percent of all cruise ship calls during a season, a reduction of more than 46 percent of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and air contaminant requirements (CACs) can be achieved.

The reduction in emissions of Ghg emissions and CACs is equal to 1,394 cars per year on the road.

The cost of the solution being proposed is between $23.3 million and $24.8 million. In comparison, for GVHA, a not-for-profit company, the total income for 2019 was $16.3 million.

Due to COVID-19, the worldwide suspension of cruise operations, and the remaining uncertainty about the resumption of cruise operations in Canada and the financial effect on GVHA, the project cannot continue until the cruise industry is stable and sources of funding have been established.

“The Board of Directors fully supports the recommendations provided by Moffat & Nichol and GVHA staff, which helps plot a path forward for the future implementation of shore power. Despite the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the economic strength of GVHA, we know the tourism industry and cruise sector will recover over time. It is our intention that, with the support of the Board of Directors for this path forward, GVHA can pursue shore power in a timeline that dovetails with the global restart and rebuilding of tourism," stated Dave Cowen, Chair of the Board of Directors for GVHA.

For The Breakwater District at Ogden Point, cruise ships are the main source of pollution, accounting for 96 percent of total GHG emissions at the terminal in 2018, equivalent to 3,241 cars on the road each year.

After extensive review of various shore power technologies, it was suggested to optimize the frequency conversion technology installed with the shore power link for variability in cruise and non-cruise vessel types.

GVHA employees will develop an organization-wide electrification plan as part of the shore power initiative, consistent with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and priorities set by the City of Victoria.

Maritime Business World