A shore power system in Zhoushan. [Photo/The official news website of Zhoushan]

Zhoushan in East China's Zhejiang province is accelerating the use of shore power systems at ports and terminals as part of efforts to reduce emissions and promote greener maritime operations.

Shortly after docking on May 9, the vessel Tong Da 2 connected to the Sanjiang Passenger Terminal shore power system, replacing the ship's auxiliary generators and providing continuous electricity for onboard equipment, including lighting and fire alarm systems.

According to Zhoushan Tongda Ocean Shipping, using shore power allows ships to shut down auxiliary engines while docked, reducing fuel consumption, noise, and emissions during port stays.

In recent years, Zhoushan has expanded its shore power infrastructure across its ports in line with China's carbon-reduction goals. By the end of 2025, all 67 nationally required specialized berths in the city had completed shore power coverage, while all 83 passenger transport berths were equipped with shore power facilities. More than 900 shore power systems have also been installed at ship repair and shipbuilding docks.

The city has promoted vessel upgrades to support connections to shore power systems, with 155 Zhoushan-registered cargo ships operating between sea and inland river routes having completed related modifications by the end of last year.

Zhoushan's passenger and cargo terminals provided shore power services for 49,600 vessel calls in 2025, supplying electricity for 361,000 hours. Total shore power consumption reached 9.34 million kilowatt-hours, up nearly 30 percent year-on-year.