Portsmouth International Port has made its first commercial shore power connection with a cruise ship, with Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady drawing electricity from the port’s onshore power system on 5 August.

The connection marks the first time a cruise vessel has drawn power from the port’s shore power infrastructure, which, the port notes, is aimed at reducing emissions and improving air quality in the surrounding area.

The same day also saw two ships connected to the system simultaneously for the first time, when Brittany Ferries’ Guillaume de Normandie berthed alongside. The port described the dual connection as “a substantial moment for the UK’s maritime industry”.

Shore power — also known as cold ironing — allows vessels to shut down their auxiliary engines while at berth and draw electricity from the local grid instead, cutting exhaust emissions including nitrogen oxides and particulate matter in port areas.

Portsmouth International Port’s shore power system has been developed with funding from the UK’s Department for Transport and Innovate UK.