Projects
Modern vessels require electrical power not only while at sea but also when berthed in port.
Shore power systems enable ships to connect to the local electricity grid, reducing fuel consumption, emissions, and noise while in harbour.
Verkís contributed to the development of a low-voltage shore power facility for cruise ships at Faxagarður in Reykjavík’s Old Harbour. The project included the preparation of tender documentation and construction supervision for a specialised shore connection system designed in accordance with the international standard IEC PAS 80005-3, which defines standardised low-voltage shore power connections for cruise vessels.
The facility was designed with two independent shore power connections: a 3 × 350 A connection with a capacity of up to 1 MW and a 4 × 350 A connection with a capacity of up to 1.5 MW. The system supports multiple voltage and frequency configurations, including 400 V, 440 V, and 690 V at both 50 Hz and 60 Hz, enabling compatibility with a wide range of international cruise vessels. The installation also provides a shore-based freshwater connection.
The cruise ship MS Maud operated by Norwegian cruise line Hurtigruten became the first vessel to utilise the facility after installing compatible onboard equipment.
The shore power equipment was designed, supplied, installed, and tested by PSW Power & Automation, with installation support from Icelandic electrical contractor H&S Rafverktakar. The shore power building was designed by Batteríið Architects, while Verkís provided engineering services throughout the project.
Power capacity
Shore power connections
Supply options
As the cruise industry moves towards lower-emission operations, Reykjavík Port required a modern shore power solution that could accommodate a wide range of international cruise vessels while reducing emissions, fuel consumption and noise in the Old Harbour. The system also needed to comply with international shore power standards and support future port electrification.
Verkís provided engineering services for the Faxagarður shore power facility, including the preparation of tender documentation and construction supervision. The project delivered a flexible low-voltage shore power system designed in accordance with the IEC PAS 80005-3 standard, featuring dual shore connections, multiple voltage and frequency configurations, and integrated freshwater supply to serve a broad range of cruise ships.
The completed facility enables cruise ships to connect directly to Reykjavík’s electrical grid, significantly reducing emissions and noise while berthed. As one of Iceland’s first dedicated cruise ship shore power installations, the project supports the maritime sector’s transition to cleaner operations and demonstrates how innovative engineering can contribute to more sustainable ports.
Technical information
Location:
Sundahöfn, Reykjavík
Size:
Up to 1,5 MW power capacity
Project period:
2021 – 2023
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