Carnival Corporation Enhances Shore Power Infrastructure in Whittier, Alaska

Carnival Corporation is moving ahead with plans to enhance the shore power infrastructure at Whittier, Alaska. This initiative is a key part of a larger effort to lower emissions from cruise ships while they are docked. In collaboration with the State of Alaska and the Chugach Electric Association, the project will enable ships operated by Carnival’s Holland America Line and Princess Cruises to connect to the local power grid, eliminating the need for onboard engine use during port visits.

The upgrades involve improvements to the port’s electrical framework, installation of voltage step-down equipment, and the creation of shore-side connections to support vessel operations as well as auxiliary services like electric vehicle charging. With construction beginning in 2023, the project has a budget of around $12 million, and essential components such as transformers and capacitor systems have been delivered as work progresses toward its expected completion in 2027.

Company representatives emphasize that this shore power initiative is crucial to their long-term strategy for decarbonization, aiming for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from ship operations by 2050. This investment is also intended to protect the unique environmental conditions that contribute to the appeal of Alaskan cruises, continuing a collaborative model established over two decades ago with previous shore power developments in Juneau.

The Whittier project is part of a broader expansion of shore power capabilities within Carnival’s fleet and global port network. Carnival has been a pioneer in adopting shore power technology since 2001, now reporting that a significant number of its vessels are equipped to utilize onshore electricity when available. This technology allows ships to draw power from land while in port, significantly reducing dependence on marine fuel for onboard operations and potentially eliminating emissions based on the local power grid’s energy mix.

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