The British Columbia government announced it is providing $9 million to the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority to plan and install infrastructure at Ogden Point, allowing cruise ships to access clean hydroelectricity at the port, turn off their engines and help protect the environment.
“People want solutions to environmental concerns while also growing our economy,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “Adding shore power will allow us to turn off large cruise ship engines by connecting vessels to clean electricity at Ogden Point. This will lower greenhouse gas emissions, reduce air pollution and create well-paying jobs that support sustainable tourism.”
The project will supply electricity to the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority’s deep-water terminal at Ogden Point in Victoria. Shore power will be installed at two berths, allowing multiple ships to draw electricity at the port, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air contaminants in the region.
“The funding announcement by the Province of British Columbia is key to launching the next phase of this important initiative by the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority,” said Robert Lewis-Manning, CEO, Greater Victoria Harbour Authority. “Shore power is one of several initiatives supporting a sustainable working port cherished by the Lekwungen people, residents and visitors alike. We look forward to collaborating with our partners in planning and implementing this project, including Songhees and Esquimalt Nations (Lekwungen people), the cruise lines, BC Hydro and the City of Victoria.”
The cruise industry is a significant contributor to B.C.’s tourism sector and the local economies of port communities. In 2023, the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority estimates 320 cruise ships and approximately 850,000 passengers will dock at Ogden Point.
This funding will help the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority move ahead with this project and get started on work with BC Hydro. The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority will continue to work with the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, BC Hydro, the cruise lines and the City of Victoria to develop a schematic design and deliver the installation of shore power infrastructure to Ogden Point.
(Photo from Greater Victoria Harbour Authority)
