The European Union is seeking to implement two new laws to require ports to provide shore energy and for ships to use it by 2030. The AFIR law mandates TEN-T ports with a certain traffic volume to provide shore energy for 90 percent of container and passenger calls. Meanwhile, the FuelEU Maritime law requires ships that stay in port for more than two hours to connect to this energy source and draw their electrical load from it.
Infrastructure and Timing Challenges
However, it seems that the necessary infrastructure for these changes has not been sufficiently developed. In particular, the electrical grid infrastructure to meet shore energy needs in ports requires significant time for upgrades. Estimates suggest that the time needed to develop this infrastructure may take between four to ten years. Thus, the two new laws are in conflict; one seeks to create infrastructure while the other aims to provide energy from it.
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Timing Coordination and Legal Requirements
From October 2026 to December 31, 2029, there are just over three years remaining. While the time required to develop the grid infrastructure is estimated to be between four to ten years, the time needed to connect to ports is only two to three years. Meanwhile, ports like Rotterdam have targeted the second half of 2028 to prepare their infrastructure. However, some connection points in these ports are still absent, and energy needs may not be met.
Currently, only 11 percent of the required container connections in 31 European ports are estimated to be ready by 2030. Meanwhile, issues such as voltage shortages and the lack of suitable connection points in ports could negatively impact the fulfillment of these requirements. Additionally, in the absence of appropriate connections, ships may continue to use their energy sources, which will place them on the list of exceptions.
Legal and Financial Implications
As of January 1, 2035, exceptions related to the lack of connections for ships will be significantly restricted. These new laws aim to create pressure on companies to ensure that connection points are available upon entering the port. Otherwise, they may face penalties based on the energy that should have been supplied from shore energy.
These developments will pose serious challenges for companies. Despite legal requirements, infrastructure must be rapidly developed to meet the critical days of 2030. While shore energy can help reduce pollution and improve environmental conditions, the lack of sufficient infrastructure could hinder the successful implementation of these laws.
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