HX first to connect to new shore power in Reykjavik

HX’s expedition ship, Fridtjof Nansen, has became the first vessel to draw shore power from the newly constructed shore power connection at Midtbakki Terminal, helping minimise emissions during port calls in Reykjavik. 

While at the Midtbakki terminal, the Fridtjof Nansen will use renewable electricity from Iceland, where 85 percent of primary energy comes from domestic renewable sources.

“The availability of sustainable shore power at the Midtbakki Terminal in the Icelandic capital is an important step in our efforts towards more sustainable shipping. We are proud to be able to supply another of our expedition ships, MS Fridtjof Nansen, with emission-free power in the harbour of Reykjavik,” says Claus A. Andersen, Director Fleet Operations at HX. 

Sigurður Jökull Ólafsson from Faxaflóahafnir sf. (Associated Icelandic Ports) explains: “HX is the perfect partner as they have broad experience with shore power connections on the Norwegian coast, and we are very pleased to be working with HX to take this innovative development forward. The expansion of shore power capacity is an important step to further improve the air quality in our harbour. We hope to encourage other operators to do the same.” According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), only less than two per cent of ports currently have such facilities.

The inauguration of the new shore power connection on 9 June was attended by Halla Hrund Logadóttir the current Director of the Icelandic National Energy Authority Orkustofnun and the Norwegian ambassador in Reykjavik, Cecilie Willoch. 

All HX ships are equipped with shore power connections. Last year, MS Maud was the first ship to use shore power at the Faxagardur Terminal in Iceland. The cooperation with Associated Icelandic Ports and other partners makes it possible to operate the ship with zero emissions while it is in harbour.

HX offers various itineraries around Iceland. You can find more information about HX at travelHX.com.