Asyaport, Türkiye's largest container terminal, has made headlines by becoming the first port in the country to install an onshore power supply (OPS) for container vessels. This new system allows ships at berth to draw electricity, which is expected to drastically cut down carbon emissions and improve the terminal's environmental footprint.
The OPS project, three years in the making, can supply high-voltage power to two mainline ships and three feeder vessels simultaneously. Currently, Asyaport operates with electrified cranes to maintain its sustainable practices.
The first vessel to test the OPS was the MSC Oscar, one of the world’s largest container ships, which successfully operated on shore power for 48 hours. This operation was part of MSC’s Tiger service, connecting Asia and Europe.
Since its establishment by Global Terminal Limited and the Turkish Soyuer family, Asyaport has been proactive in enhancing its sustainability efforts. The terminal already generates 6% of its energy through a solar power system comprising over 3,000 panels. Additionally, MSC is exploring plans to transition the terminal to 100% renewable energy sources.
In a related note, MSC recently named its new fuel-efficient vessel, MSC Türkiye, at Asyaport, showcasing the terminal’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the maritime industry.