A SHORE power precinct being developed in Sydney Harbour is now on track to offer renewable energy at two berths by 2024. 

The 100% renewable energy shore power precinct is expected to be the first of its kind in the world. Development is underway at Glebe Island and White Bay. 

When the project was announced in March this year, the plan was to have one berth online in 2024. 

But transport minister David Elliott said on Wednesday that ships are expected to be able to plug in at two berths by the end of that year. 

“Not only is the NSW government delivering on its promises, it’s delivering them ahead of schedule by doubling the stage 1 program of work scheduled for completion by the end of 2024,” Mr Elliott said.  

“We are working to make two shore power sites are live and ship-ready by the end of 2024, with one for the cruise industry and another for dry bulk carriers.  

“This is an exciting step forward and another significant milestone the Port Authority has achieved for the highly complex power project and moving towards net zero by 2040.” 

In addition to the shore-powered cruise and dry bulk berths, a further three bulk berths are scheduled for completion by 2030. 

Port Authority of New South Wales CEO Phil Holliday said he was proud of the port authority’s progress in advancing shore power for the precinct ahead of schedule. 

“Our net zero targets will prevent the same amount of carbon from entering our atmosphere as planting more than 90,000 trees every year,” Mr Holliday said. 

“For the next two years we will focus on progressing the shore power project for The Bays area and creating a world-class integrated and sustainable port of the future.” 

Work currently underway includes design work on high-voltage supply to Bays Port, installation of the shore power system at White Bay Cruise Terminal Berth 5 and retrofit work at Glebe Island Bulk Berth 8. 

Port Authority of New South Wales said it has also entered into a new power purchase agreement which reportedly 100% of its electricity use at Glebe Island and White Bay with renewable energy.