Flam gets state funding for OPS

The Norwegian government have decided to secure state funding of NKr 100 million (€8.5 million) to the establishment of shore power in Flam. This is made as a follow up to the soon-to-be-expected zero emission regulations for all passenger ships in the Norwegian World Heritage Fjords going into effect for cruiseships from 2032. The Norwegian government intend to accept biogas as a zero emission solution from 2032.

"Flam port considers this a critical move as this secures the use of the best available technology to reduce emissions for now", says Tor Mikkel Tokvam, port director, Aurland Hamnevesen. "The port has had to await its investment decisions due to the uncertainty regarding the potential for future cruise calls, given the governments high, and potentially too high, ambitions."

With this security now in place, the port is ready to follow up in due course with positive investment decisions. "Planning for extending the pier by 75m during next winter is on track, and the tender for installation of shore power is going out in the market this week," says Tokvam. The onshore power supply (OPS) is expected ready for use before the 2027-season.