Oslo to waive quay fees for ships operating emission-free while linked to shore power

As part of a brand-new environmental strategy, starting from 2026, vessels that sail emission-free in and out of the Norwegian Port of Oslo are to be exempt from quay fees while plugged into shore power.

Officials from the Port of Oslo have explained that those ships that are sailing in an eco-friendly manner and, therefore, accomplish a “high environmental score” are to earn additional discounts, while the vessels that have not yet adopted any green solution will be required to pay more.

The discounts will be calculated using the Environmental Port Index (EPI) system for cruise ships and the Environmental Ship Index (ESI) for all units.

As divulged, a 100% discount on quay fees is envisaged to be implemented for vessels sailing emission-free specifically in and out of Steilene, which consists of five islands located in the inner Oslofjord.

In addition to this, a 20% discount is planned to be applied for cargo ships using established shore power sites, while the existing 20% discount for scheduled traffic is going to be discontinued.

Speaking about this development, Ingvar M. Mathisen, Port Director of Oslo, shared: “We aim to be the world’s most environmentally friendly city port. That’s why we continue to invest in green solutions and promote emission cuts to ensure Oslo is a pioneer city for sustainable sea transport.”

The Port of Oslo has been an early adopter of environmental discounts and contributions from all ships as a way of investing in zero-emission technological solutions. The city itself has plans underway to slash emissions by 95% by 2030, while the port has a target of achieving a reduction of 85% until that same year.

As informed, since 2018, NOK 225 million (approximately $21.9 million) has been invested in zero-emission infrastructure. This has, as a result, cut emissions from port activities by 26% so far.

What is more, shore power for cruise ships has already been installed, as well as for ferries, bulk carriers and container vessels.

A new facility for cruise ships will open at Filipstad in 2026, the port of Oslo’s representatives have highlighted, while there are plans to open the same sites for tankers soon. Per the port, fast-charging stations for heavy vehicles have already been set up at Grønlia and Revierkaia.

“Oslo Port delivers across the entire transport chain – not just to ships. Together with the city and our customers, we invest in zero-emission transport solutions – both at sea and on land – to create sustainable corridors between Oslo and Europe,” Mathisen remarked.

That said, while shore power and electric ferries are described as having “delivered good results”, more measures are needed to reach the envisioned targets. The port has revealed that the next steps to achieve this comprise alternative fuels, green transport corridors and improved charging infrastructure.

On a national level, the Norwegian government unveiled a brand-new environmental policy in April 2025, committing to reducing emissions by as much as 70-75% by 2035.

The government explained that mandates would also be set for small and large tourist ships and ferries to run on clean power and produce zero emissions starting from January 1, 2026. The same regulation would apply to larger units commencing from January 1, 2032.