The Port of Virginia has rung in the New Year by achieving an extraordinary milestone— it is now the first East Coast port entirely powered by clean energy. The port has accelerated its ambitious goal of carbon neutrality by 2040, surpassing its original 2032 benchmark by an impressive eight years.
Already a leader in sourcing renewable energy for its on-terminal cargo operations, the port solidified its commitment through a power purchase agreement with Dominion Energy. This agreement allowed for an additional 10% of energy from 345 MW of solar projects, ensuring a consistent supply of clean energy to power the port's operations. According to Stephen A. Edwards, CEO and executive director of the Virginia Port Authority, "Virginia is the first major US East Coast port to power its entire operation using 100 percent clean electricity."
The transition to clean electricity has enabled the port to offset its carbon footprint significantly, with a remarkable 45% reduction in carbon emissions per container. The port's current fleet includes 116 electric stacking cranes, four electric rail cranes, and 27 electric ship-to-shore cranes, a number set to grow as the port optimizes its North Berth at Norfolk International Terminals.
Furthermore, the Port of Virginia's commitment to sustainability extends beyond its operations. A $220 million investment in the development of the US East Coast's first offshore wind logistics hub in Portsmouth demonstrates the port's dedication to advancing clean energy initiatives. This hub will support Dominion Energy's Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project, the largest offshore wind project in America to date.
This achievement marks a significant step towards a more sustainable future, showcasing the Port of Virginia as a pioneer in clean energy adoption and a beacon for other ports along the East Coast to follow suit.
Source: renewableenergyworld.com