In a significant step towards reducing emissions and promoting environmental sustainability, Japan has unveiled an ambitious initiative to introduce shore power facilities across its major ports. The move is set to revolutionise the maritime industry and contribute to the country's commitment to combatting climate change.

The new initiative aims to equip ports with universal zero-emission chargers. These shore power facilities will enable vessels to connect to electricity while docked, thereby eliminating the need for onboard diesel generators and reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions.

With an interim target of lowering emissions by 46% by 2030, Japan has set ambitious targets to attain climate neutrality by 2050. Decarbonizing port regions, which currently account for around 60% of Japan's CO2 emissions, is given a lot of attention in line with these goals.

By the end of 2025, the plan's initial phase will have installed prototype zero-emission chargers in Japan's Hanshin and Kenshin ports. The strategic choice of these ports is a result of their major handling of both domestic and international freight.

To realise this initiative, a Japanese council has been formed provisionally named the ‘Promotion Council for Zero Emission Chargers for Ships’. 

 “Ultimately, this will realise zero emissions from ships in port areas, the spread of EV ships, the expansion of renewable energy use, and improvements in global and local environmental issues,” the council said in a press release.