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State Rep. Stavrinakis, Merrill seek funding for shoreside power at Charleston’s cruise terminal
Politicians in South Carolina have called for state funding to help bring shoreside power to the Port of Charleston’s cruise terminal.
The shoreside power system, which would allow cruise ships to be powered when docked at the terminal, would not only reduce emissions and improve air quality but would be the first of its kind in the state of South Carolina.
“Bringing shoreside power to our cruise terminal would be a game changer for both Charleston and the entire state,” state Republican Leon Stavrinakis, who was joined by fellow Republican Jim Merrill in promoting the initiative, told ABC News 4.
“With this new technology, Charleston will be a national leader in both economic growth and environmental innovation,” he added.
“Shoreside power will ultimately bring more tourism dollars to Charleston while cleaning up our air at the same time. It's a win-win for everyone involved.”
Installing shoreside power at the terminal would require up to US$5 million in federal funds.
In response to the proposals, the South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA), who has previously explored the option of shorepower before concluding it too costly, were quick to applaud the efforts of both Stavrinakis and Merrill, but added that it is exploring a number of options to help reduce port related emissions.
“While we understand that shoreside power has been the focus of conversations to date, the industry is also pursuing other more modern technologies that provide equal or greater benefits,” said the SCPA.
