Transport Malta and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings signed a Shore Power Purchase Agreement, enabling the company’s cruise ships to connect to Malta’s electricity grid while berthed in port.
The agreement will support cleaner air for communities around the port by reducing emissions during ships’ stays.
Through the Shore-to-Ship Project, cruise ships can plug electricity from the shore to power onboard services, including lighting and air conditioning. This reduces the need to run onboard engines while in port and lowers the pollution generated by vessels at berth.
This is the fourth shore power agreement signed by Transport Malta. It extends the use of Malta’s shore power infrastructure and strengthens cooperation with cruise operators to reduce the environmental impact of port activity.
The agreement was signed by Transport Malta Chief Executive Officer Leonid McKay and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Director of Nautical Operations Cristian Cutugno, in the presence of Minister for Sustainable Mobility Chris Bonett and Chief Officer Ports and Yachting Directorate and Harbour Master Capt. Fritz Farrugia during the Decarbonising The Future (DTF) Conference, which is being held in Malta between 12 and 14 October 2026.
In his keynote address, Minister Chris Bonett said that the agreement demonstrates how investment in maritime infrastructure can benefit both the industry and local communities. “Through our partnership with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, we are turning our investment in Onshore Power Supply into practical action by enabling cruise ships to connect to the electricity grid while in port and reducing emissions from vessels at berth,” said Minister Bonett. He added that Malta’s maritime development must be supported by modern infrastructure that improves efficiency, strengthens competitiveness and contributes to a cleaner environment for residents and visitors.
Transport Malta Chief Executive Officer Leonid McKay emphasised the importance of cooperation between public authorities and maritime operators to ensure that investment in cleaner technology delivers tangible results. “For Malta, sustainability is not simply about meeting future requirements; it is about investing today in a modern, competitive and environmentally responsible maritime infrastructure that benefits our communities, visitors and the generations to come,” said Mr McKay.
Cristian Cutugno, Director of Nautical Operations at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, said that as the company develops its future cruise fleet, Malta’s onshore power supply system, unique in the Mediterranean, has emerged as a natural choice for its operations.
The agreement forms part of Malta’s ongoing work to reduce emissions from maritime activity while supporting the development of its cruise and port services.
