Portsmouth launches UK's first high-voltage multi-berth shore power system

Portsmouth International Port has launched the UK's first high-voltage, multi-berth shore power system, letting docked ships plug into the grid and switch off onboard generators. But high UK electricity prices mean shore power can cost more than running the ships' own generators.

• Electricity accounts for 80–85% of shore power cost; port charges 15–20%
• UK TNUoS grid charges are rising about 10% a year
• UK electricity prices were 18% above the EU average in H2 2025
• The system lets ships shut off generators and cut emissions