- Pioneering Environmental Milestone: Princess Cruises became the first cruise line to connect a vessel to Juneau’s hydroelectric grid in 2001, setting a new sustainability standard for the maritime industry.
- Significant Emission Reductions: Through 1,725 shore power connections, the cruise line has used over 123 million kilowatt-hours of hydroelectric power and avoided more than 84,500 metric tons of emissions.
- Direct Local Community Benefits: The collaborative partnership has generated $11.2 million in Community Partnership credits, supporting municipal projects and Juneau energy customers.
- Global Industry Model: The Juneau shore power project served as a proof of concept that has since inspired the adoption of shore power technology at 41 cruise ports globally.
According to a landmark announcement published by Princess Cruises, the premier ocean carrier is celebrating a quarter-century of pioneering shore power leadership in Juneau, Alaska. In 2001, Princess Cruises made maritime history by becoming the very first cruise line to connect a passenger vessel directly to Juneau’s local hydroelectric power grid. Developed in close public-private partnership with the City and Borough of Juneau and Alaska Electric Light & Power, this visionary initiative enables docked ships to completely turn off their diesel engines and plug into renewable hydroelectricity, drastically reducing port emissions and enhancing regional air quality.

Over the past 25 years, what began as an ambitious engineering feat on an isolated electrical grid has evolved into a global benchmark for sustainable travel, inspiring shore power installations at 41 cruise ports around the world. Through 1,725 successful shore power connections in Juneau, Princess ships have utilized over 123.6 million kilowatt-hours of clean hydroelectric power. This extraordinary effort has successfully prevented more than 84,500 metric tons of emissions from entering the atmosphere while generating $11.2 million in Community Partnership credits that directly benefit Juneau residents.
With nearly 60 years of sailing experience across Alaska, Princess Cruises remains dedicated to protecting the pristine environments and welcoming coastal communities that make the region a world-class destination. By continually advancing sustainable fleet technologies and energy-efficient operational practices, Princess Cruises reinforces its commitment to preserving the Great Land for generations of ocean travelers to come.
