As of January 1, 2025, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has expanded its At-Berth Regulation to include tanker and roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels.
This regulation mandates that these vessels implement a CARB Approved Emission Control Strategy (CAECS) while docked at California ports to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), particulate matter (PM2.5), and reactive organic gases (ROG).
Shipowners and operators must now ensure that their tanker and Ro-Ro vessels comply with the new emission reduction requirements. This involves installing appropriate emission control technologies, such as shore power connections or alternative control systems, to meet CARB's standards. Non-compliance can result in penalties and restrictions on port access.
Crew members are required to be trained in operating the installed emission control systems. This includes understanding procedures for connecting to shore power or operating alternative emission reduction technologies. Proper training ensures compliance and the safe operation of these systems during port stays.
The regulation primarily targets emissions from auxiliary engines and, for tanker vessels, auxiliary boilers while at berth. Shipowners may need to modify exhaust systems and funnels to accommodate new emission control technologies. Main engines are generally not the focus of this regulation, as they are typically not in use while the vessel is docked.
CARB provides alternative compliance options, including Vessel Incident Events (VIEs), Terminal Incident Events (TIEs), Innovative Concepts, and a Remediation Fund. These alternatives offer flexibility in cases where standard compliance methods are not feasible due to specific circumstances.
Shipowners, operators, and crews should familiarize themselves with the detailed requirements and timelines outlined in CARB's At-Berth Regulation to ensure full compliance and avoid potential penalties.
