Electrifying Maritime Shipping: Evaluating the CO₂ Reduction and Viability of Future Battery-Powered Container Ships Calling at the Port of Los Angeles

Abstract Maritime shipping plays a pivotal role in global logistics, influencing efficiency, emissions, and adaptability. This academic study envisions future electrified shipping fleets and evaluates the potential for CO 2 reduction and the cost delta between grid electricity and marine fossil fuels using three types of container ships (5000-7999 TEU, 8000-11999 TEU, and 12000-14499 TEU). The scenario evaluated envisions an electrical charging infrastructure at the Port of Los Angeles, supported fully by wind and solar energy sources, to recharge future battery-powered ships. It is recognized that electric-powered ocean-going long-transit ships are not practical, but this study provides baseline groundwork to justify and support future development of hybrid or partially electric ships to help meet the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) target of a 50% reduction in CO 2 emissions from the world’s shipping by 2050. Additionally, a real case study analysis of all container ships at POLA was conducted using container vessel activity to further evaluate the practical implications and benefits of this transition. This analysis underscores the significant electrical infrastructure investments required and highlights the potential economic challenges as well as the environmental benefits of integrating electric power into maritime operations.