Plug in or pay up

The Real economics of shore power

At PBT, we closely monitor the industry’s transition toward sustainable shipping. A recent Bunkerspot feature, developed together with the European Onshore Power Supply Association (EOPSA), takes a detailed look at the true costs of connecting vessels to onshore power - comparing real routes, vessel types, and compliance scenarios.

The numbers behind the shift

By 2030, European containerships and passenger vessels will be required to use shore power under FuelEU Maritime, while the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) mandates that 90% of port calls by large vessels at TEN-T ports must be electrified. These changes come with major financial implications, but also opportunities.

According to the analysis, the EU shore power market could generate up to €2 billion in recurring annual revenue, as shipowners increasingly plug in rather than burn marine diesel oil (MDO) at berth.

Key insights from the report

• By 2030, shore power becomes cheaper than MDO on most European itineraries — even at electricity prices as high as €0.35/kWh.
• FuelEU and IMO Net-Zero compliance costs stack significantly, tipping the balance in favor of electrification.
• A 2,500 TEU feeder vessel operating in North Europe could save an estimated $16.7 million by 2040 simply by switching to shore power.
• Even if electricity costs rise to €1 per kWh by 2040, shore power remains more economical than fuel.

What this means for shipowners

The takeaway is clear: while infrastructure roll-out still demands large investments, shore power is fast becoming the financially sound choice. For shipowners operating primarily in EU waters, break-even can already be achieved as early as 2025.

As compliance deadlines approach, timing is everything. Those who act early, investing in retrofits, securing grid connections, and building partnerships, will be best positioned to capture long-term savings and avoid the “shore power rush” expected once regulations fully take effect.

💡 Bottom line: by 2040, even at €1/kWh, plugging in will still beat paying up.

Read the full Bunkerspot article for the detailed cost breakdown and case studies, developed with Sustainable Ships and EOPSA: Bunkerspot Plug In Or Pay Up 1760518285