Victoria – The Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, the Honourable Anita Anand, has announced up to $35.5 million in funding for three projects based in British Columbia to invest in commercially available clean technology and infrastructure for ports. This funding, provided under the Green Shipping Corridor Program, will:
- increase the use of clean energy and transportation infrastructure at ports and terminals;
- invest in shore power technology to reduce emissions from idling ships; and
- prioritize low-emission and low-noise vessels to minimize environmental impact in port areas.
The funding goes towards mainly shore power projects at four Seaspan terminals, the Ogden Point cruise terminal at the Port of Victoria, and the Canada Place cruise terminal in Vancouver.
Investing in clean transportation not only safeguards the environment but also supports the growth of British Columbia’s marine and cruise industries, creating new job opportunities and cleaner air and water for all residents of the province.
The Green Shipping Corridor Program, a key pillar of Canada’s decarbonization strategy, aims to accelerate the transition to low-carbon and net-zero emission fuels and technologies within the marine sector. Transport Canada collaborates closely with shipping partners, coastal and Indigenous communities, as well as environmental groups to advance this commitment.
“We are grateful for this generous support for sustainability, economic development and innovation,” said Mark Mawhinney, Board Chair of the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority. “Shore Power is a catalyst for the electrification of our deep-water port, and today’s funding will support future economic growth and development in Greater Victoria. Renewable energy options will further establish a Green Shipping corridor across the Pacific Northwest and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
(Photo of Port of Victoria)