Meeting the cruise industry's stringent requirements regarding emissions and future development, the Port of Flåm has been working to provide locally produced hydroelectric power to cruise ships. The port submitted an application to ENOVA in April 2020, which was granted, for €27 million. The actual cost of constructing the onshore power supply is estimated at €83 million, including a submarine cable from the hydroelectric power station in Aurland to Flåm to meet future development and innovation demands.
The application submitted to ENOVA was made in collaboration with local stakeholders, the cruise industry, and the local energy provider. The fact that the application has now been granted demonstrates that the port, the cruise industry, and the destination are all playing a significant role in the development of more sustainable tourism.
“This has been important news for us, demonstrating that we are ready for change. Now we need to find a balance regarding the OPS facilities and the opportunities they provide. We must implement this in accordance with the World Heritage Fjords regulations established by the Norwegian Maritime Authority and the Norwegian Parliament’s decision to make the Norwegian fjords emission-free by 2026. It is important to find a future-oriented strategy that benefits public health and the environment in the fjords while protecting their local value,” commented Tor Mikkel Tokvam, Director of the Port of Flåm.
By establishing OPS, cruise ship emissions will be reduced by 75% within a few years, and at the same time, the project will contribute to a greater supply of electricity to Flåm.
