cruise, maritime, ecological and energy transition : In Le Havre, cruises go ‘zero emissions’ with the launch of RENAQ

After years of studies, preparation and construction work, the major project to electrify the Pointe de Floride cruise terminal in Le Havre – RENAQ – enters its operational phase on Thursday 30 October 2025. Its inauguration, with the first ship connecting to the shore power network, marks a decisive step towards zero-emission port calls and a historic turning point for HAROPA PORT in its energy transition.

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©HAROPA PORT / Nautilus

A successful first operation

The first electrical connection was made at Pierre Callet Quay, with the MSC Poesia ship belonging to the Italian-Swiss company MSC Cruises.
Thanks to one of the two CMS (Cable Management System) vehicles delivered in 2025, the cruise ship was able to connect to the high-voltage land network and switch off its diesel generators during its stopover.
 

This commissioning marks the completion of three major infrastructure projects carried out by VINCI Énergies/Actemium in partnership with ENEDIS:

  • connection to the public electricity distribution network via 3 km of underground high-voltage cables (20,000 volts),
  • construction of a 1,200 sq.m cell to house the electricity conversion and distribution equipment,
  • delivery of two vehicles equipped with articulated arms to connect ships to the quay.

By 2026, the system will be extended to the Roger Meunier and Joannes Couvert quays, making possible electrification to all berths at Pointe de Floride. 

RENAQ :  a solution for reducing environmental footprint

The RENAQ project is helping to significantly reduce atmospheric emissions and noise pollution. The power supply to the three quays will prevent the emission of 15,000 to 20,000 tonnes of CO₂ per year.

It is part of the overall redevelopment project for Pointe de Floride, led by GIP Le Havre Croisières, which aims to modernise and enhance the reception of cruise ships and their passengers while reducing the environmental footprint of cruise activity.

Partners united around the energy transition

As part of the studies and trials conducted for this project, HAROPA PORT was also able to rely on the support of volunteer shipping companies: Viking Ocean Cruises, MSC SPA and Carnival Maritime.

At the heart of HAROPA PORT's strategic project, the project has a total budget of €32 million, broken down as follows:

  • €5 million from the State under the CPIER 2023-2027;
  • €13.6 million from the State under the France Relance plan;
  • €900,000 from the State under the coal and steel research fund
  • €12.5 million financed by HAROPA PORT.
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