Cruise ships plug in to SF’s grid

A system was installed at the Port of San Francisco recently that allows cruise ships to turn off their dirty diesel engines and plug into the city’s electrical grid while docked, according to a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency press release.

The shore-to-ship electrical connection system will provide high-voltage electricity to ships and can power refrigeration, cooling, heating and lighting systems, as well as emergency equipment and other technologies necessary to keep ships functional during passenger loading and unloading. Officials hope the use of electricity will cut down on air pollution.

The project was made possible through a $1 million EPA grant and the cooperation of San Francisco city officials, Princess Cruises, Holland America, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District and the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission.