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Beijing likely to introduce shore power regulation this July

Chinese authorities continue to look at every possible maritime measure to cut pollution. Having launched ECAs, promoted the use of LNG on rivers, and cracked down on the use of open-loop scrubbers in its waters, Splash understands Beijing is now mulling a new shore power regulation.

Splash understands China is likely to introduce a new regulation to push all ships with existing shore power receiving facilities to plug into shore power during berthing from this July, regardless of ship’s flag, type or size.

China’s sophisticated, modern ports set-up sees shore power on offer in more locations than most countries in the world. However, analysts have questioned whether the new regulation will actually cut pollution, or merely shift it elsewhere.

A report from shipping consultants Drewry, published in October last year, showed just 5% of China’s energy production derived from nuclear and renewables. The country has 45 current nuclear plants with 11 more under construction. Hyrdo accounts for 8% and natural gas 7%. Coal accounts for 61% and oil 19% as the top two sources of energy in the world’s most populous nation.

Andy Lane from Sea-Intelligence commented today, “Reducing pollution in the highly populated coastal cities is good, however given the sources of power, some of it is merely going to be relocated elsewhere.”

Sam Chambers

Starting out with the Informa Group in 2000 in Hong Kong, Sam Chambers became editor of Maritime Asia magazine as well as East Asia Editor for the world’s oldest newspaper, Lloyd’s List. In 2005 he pursued a freelance career and wrote for a variety of titles including taking on the role of Asia Editor at Seatrade magazine and China correspondent for Supply Chain Asia. His work has also appeared in The Economist, The New York Times, The Sunday Times and The International Herald Tribune.
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