Le Havre, France: Advancing Cruise Infrastructure and Pioneering Shore Power Initiatives

The Port of Le Havre in France is advancing its cruise terminal expansion and implementing shore power initiatives. The new Terminals 2 and 3 are set to open in November 2025, while Terminal 1 will be operational by spring 2026. Once completed, the port aims to accommodate three cruise ships simultaneously, serving up to 13,500 passengers each day.

Terminals 2 and 3 will manage a combined capacity of 10,000 passengers, enhancing both transit and turnaround operations. A park for public access will be created at the end of the quays, along with a rooftop walkway connecting to Terminal 1, all without encroaching on security-restricted areas.

Aligned with environmental goals, Le Havre is installing onshore power supply (OPS) systems at its cruise terminals. The first OPS connection at Terminal 2 is currently being tested, with plans for it to be operational by June 2025. Further installations at Terminals 1 and 3 are expected by mid and late 2026, capable of supporting ships needing up to 14MW each, totaling a combined capacity of 30MW. The electricity will mainly come from nuclear sources, supplemented by hydro, solar, wind, and a small amount of LNG.

The overall investment for the terminals, quay renovations, and OPS infrastructure is around EUR 120 million, funded by the French government, the European Union, the Normandy region, HAROPA Port for the OPS segment, and Le Havre Croisières for terminal construction.

HAROPA Port emphasizes that the OPS initiative is aimed at enhancing service rather than being a commercial endeavor. The goal is to cut annual CO₂ emissions by approximately 15,000 tonnes. With OPS connections mandatory by 2030, ships failing to comply will face penalties according to EU regulations.

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