Lerwick expands shore power for NorthLink vessels

PortLerwick Port Authority, in collaboration with Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL), has developed a shore power scheme for Holmsgarth Berth 3, that will provide electrical power to NorthLink vessels during port calls while also supporting future vessel requirements.

Earlier this year, Lerwick Port Authority awarded contacts for shore power installation to Frank L Johnston (Shetland) Ltd and ABB Marine & Ports. Once operational, the system will allow the vessels to switch off onboard generators and draw electrical power directly from the port while alongside, using electricity supplied through the harbour's network.

Building on Lerwick Harbour's established shore power network, the investment responds to increasing demand in recent years. At Mair's Pier alone, high-capacity shore power connections have supplied almost 9 gigawatt hours of electricity since installation, with annual usage averaging around 1.7 gigawatt hours in recent years.

The project is expected to take approximately 14 months from the initial contract award, including a civil works programme lasting around three and a half months.

aug 04 2026