The facility offers connections at 11kV and 6.6kV voltage levels with 50Hz or 60Hz frequencies, accommodating both cruise ships and ferries. It can power three ferries simultaneously or one cruise ship and includes technology to integrate a 1MW hydrogen fuel cell system. The system’s smart grid network, utilizing digital technology, enables efficient energy management, making it the only facility in France capable of supplying multiple vessels from a single conversion station.
Jean-Pierre Giran, President of the Toulon Provence Méditerranée Metropolis, stated: “The delivery of this project is an important milestone for Toulon Provence Méditerranée Metropolis as a leading Mediterranean port to provide shore power across all of its docks.” He added that, with support from the European Union, the French State, the Sud PACA Region, the Departmental Council, and ADEME, the system reduces over 80 percent of harmful emissions, saves 9,000 hours of diesel operation annually, and cuts sulfur emissions equivalent to those from 50,000 cars each year.
The shore power system, developed by Toulon Provence Méditerranée Metropolis and implemented by ABB, allows ships to switch off diesel generators while docked, aligning with the International Maritime Organization’s net-zero emissions targets for shipping by around 2050. This initiative supports the Mediterranean’s designation as an IMO Emission Control Area for sulfur oxides and particulate matter since May 2025, requiring ships to use low-sulfur fuel.
Handling approximately 1,500 annual port calls from ferries, cruise ships, and cargo vessels, Toulon’s shore power system significantly reduces carbon, SOx, and NOx emissions, as well as noise levels. Ship operators also benefit from lower fuel costs. The project is part of the regional “Zero-smoke stopovers” initiative, which includes shore power systems for Marseille and Nice.
Frédéric Mestivier, Designer and Technical Director of the electrification project, explained: “Technically innovative, this project introduces a new smart grid network architecture using digital technology to manage energy flows from multiple interconnected sources.” The infrastructure integrates solar power, battery storage, and a 20kV Enedis grid connection to optimize energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
ABB’s comprehensive contribution includes equipment for energy storage, solar integration, and full project management, ensuring the system supports renewable energy sources and balances energy demands effectively.
