Shore power deployment strategies and policies including alternative fuels

• Novel framework for analysis of multiple shore power policies. • Integration of alternative fuel adoption within the shore power deployment model. • Test case on the bulk carrier shipping network of the St. Lawrence and Great Lakes. • Best scenario includes shore power usage & zero-emission regulations, and strategic funding. This study presents a novel evaluation framework to compare and optimize shore power deployment policies across shipping networks. The framework considers a wide range of policy instruments, including incentives, emission reduction regulations, and public funding. In addition to assessing the business case for shore power adoption, it incorporates the influence of alternative fuels and their implications for deployment strategies, offering a more holistic approach than previous models have suggested. A test case on the St. Lawrence and Great Lakes dry and liquid cargo shipping network illustrates the framework’s application for policymakers. Under appropriate policies, shore power could cover 30–50% of vessels’ berth energy use. Achieving large-scale adoption would require an estimated government investment of $257 million USD in infrastructure. With projected cost savings of $240 million USD in external costs and a cumulative reduction of 2,556 kilotons of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2040, this scenario represents the most compelling policy option.