Italy Finalizes Cold Ironing Rules: Italy issues a decree establishing the regulatory framework for cold ironing service tenders across its ports. The Ministry will define optimal clusters, with Port Authorities holding tenders to award concessions to qualified energy operators. €570 million in grid charge exemptions are available until 2033, with benefits transferring directly to shipowners. READ MORE

Civitavecchia Leads Med Cruise Surge: Civitavecchia port handled 3.56 million cruise passengers in 2025, a 2.8% increase, with 862 ship calls. Across the Mediterranean, ports from Barcelona to Piraeus reported strong growth, with Lisbon achieving record turnaround traffic. This surge reinforces the critical need for shore power and sustainable infrastructure across the region's busiest cruise hubs. READ MORE

UK Consortium Wins Clean Maritime Funding: A consortium led by Ameresco Limited is awarded Clean Maritime funding to assess AI-enabled shore power and charging infrastructure. The project will explore autonomous vessel integration and smart grid solutions for ports. It aims to create replicable models for future port electrification projects across the UK. READ MORE

Visakha Port Opens Low-Voltage Shore Power: Visakha Port in Andhra Pradesh, India, commissions its first low-voltage shore power system for fishing and small coastal vessels. The facility reduces diesel generator use at berth, supporting cleaner port operations and improved local air quality. This represents a significant step in India's broader port electrification strategy. READ MORE

Tarragona Rolls Out Shore Power: The Balears wharf at the Port of Tarragona begins shore power rollout, enabling vessels to connect to the grid at berth. This infrastructure will reduce emissions and improve air quality for the surrounding community. The project positions Tarragona as a greener option for ship operators in the Western Mediterranean. READ MORE

DP World Introduces Chile's First Electric Reach Stacker: DP World introduces Chile's first fully electric reach stacker at its Lirquén terminal, eliminating tailpipe emissions during cargo handling. The equipment modernizes the fleet while reducing noise and improving working conditions. This investment sets a new standard for sustainable container handling in Chilean ports. READ MORE

CEF Funds EU Port Upgrades: The Connecting Europe Facility announces funding for upgrading ports and maritime transport across the EU. Investments target shore power, alternative fuel infrastructure, and digitalization to enhance the TEN-T network. Projects will improve efficiency while reducing the environmental footprint of maritime transport. READ MORE

TE Study Maps Europe Ferry Electrification: Transport & Environment publishes "Full Charge Ahead," investigating the potential to electrify Europe's ferry fleet. The study identifies routes where battery-electric ferries are already cost-competitive and technically feasible. Electrifying short-sea shipping could deliver significant emissions reductions and improve air quality in port cities. READ MORE

Interferry Welcomes EU Industrial Strategy: Interferry welcomes the European Union's new industrial strategy supporting ferry decarbonization and competitiveness. The strategy recognizes short-sea shipping's role in the green transition and calls for dedicated funding. This policy alignment provides long-term certainty for ferry operators investing in sustainable technologies. READ MORE

UECC Orders Multi-Fuel Hybrid PCTCs: UECC places an order for a pair of multi-fuel battery-hybrid PCTCs capable of operating on LNG, ammonia, and methanol. The vessels combine alternative fuel capability with battery hybrid power for reduced emissions. The newbuilds will significantly decarbonize automotive logistics across European short-sea routes. READ MORE

Kuok Maritime Launches Singapore's First All-Electric Tug: Kuok Maritime Group introduces the EON, Singapore's first all-electric harbour tug, featuring a 3 MWh energy storage system. The 50-tonne bollard pull vessel with ABB's DC grid technology will commence operations in April 2026. This milestone supports the MPA's 2030 zero-emission harbour craft targets. READ MORE

Auckland Hybrid Ferry Tailored to Operations: Incat Crowther reveals the design of Auckland's first plug-in hybrid fast ferry, featuring four Danfoss electric motors and Hamilton water jets. The 32m, 299-passenger vessel achieved 36 knots on all-electric mode during trials. It will reduce carbon emissions by 750,000 kg annually on the Devonport commuter route. READ MORE

Washington Bill Could Expand Passenger Ferries: A Washington State bill, the Mosquito Fleet Act, could allow local municipalities and ports to create passenger-only ferry services. The legislation aims to supplement Washington State Ferries by enabling locally funded, voter-approved ferry districts. If passed, new services like an Everett-Whidbey Island connection could enhance regional mobility. READ MORE

Corvus Energy Boosted by Hybrid Ferry Shift: The shift to hybrid ferries is bolstering battery manufacturer Corvus Energy as demand for marine energy storage surges. Corvus continues to expand its footprint with projects in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. READ MORE

Hybrid to Zero 2026 Conference
March 11–12 | Oslo, Norway 🇳🇴

4th Annual Electrification, Fuel Cells And Battery Development For Marine Vessels
March 27–28 | Hamburg, Germany 🇩🇪

TOC Europe
May 19–21 | Hamburg, Germany 🇩🇪

Electric and Hybrid Marine Expo Europe 2026
June 16–18 | Amsterdam, Netherlands 🇳🇱