The Port of Toulon has successfully commissioned France’s largest shore power system, developed and delivered by a consortium led by ABB in collaboration with Eiffage Construction and Fauché.
Fully operational since February 13, the system is currently undergoing final acceptance testing.
This state-of-the-art installation represents a transformative step in maritime sustainability, enabling the French port to supply clean electrical power to docked vessels, allowing them to switch off their diesel generators and significantly cut emissions.
Designed to handle both 11kV and 6.6kV voltage levels at 50Hz and 60Hz frequencies, the system can simultaneously support three ferries or one cruise ship.
It also includes infrastructure to accommodate a 1MW hydrogen fuel cell system in the future.
Uniquely, Toulon’s solution is the only one in France capable of powering multiple vessels—ferries and cruise ships alike from a single conversion station.
Jean-Pierre Giran, President of Toulon Provence Méditerranée Metropolis, stated they are eliminating over 80% of polluting emissions, reducing diesel use by 9,000 hours annually, and cutting noise and vibrations significantly.
The project directly supports the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO’s) goal of achieving net-zero emissions from international shipping by 2050.
The initiative forms part of the broader “Zero-smoke stopovers“ strategy led by the Région Sud PACA, which also includes similar projects in Marseille and Nice.
The smart system includes integrated ABB equipment capable of energy storage and load balancing. By smoothing out power peaks and incorporating renewable energy sources such as solar panels and batteries, the system enhances grid reliability and reduces the cost of energy sourced from the 20kV Enedis grid line.
