News: California Air Resources Board updates 'At Berth' regulation

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved a new regulation to control emissions whilst ships are at berth in some California ports. The rule expands the scope of the existing 'At-Berth' regulation adopted in 2007 which covered container ships, reefers and cruise ships.

Members should take note that the new regulation will expand the scope of covered ships to include tankers and auto carriers. The existing regulation will remain in effect through 2022 and the new regulation will commence in 2023 when container, reefer and cruise ships will transition to the new regulation. Auto carriers and tankers docking at Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach will fall under the scope of the regulation in 2025. Tankers calling Northern California will be covered under the regulation beginning in 2027. 

The 'At Berth' regulation requires ships calling a regulated California port to use shore power or a CARB-approved control technology. Members should be advised that ship owners that need additional time to comply may petition CARB to use alternative means to achieve emissions reductions. 

A news article released by the CARB regarding the updated regulation can be found here. If you have any questions about this alert, please contact your usual claims handler for further assistance.​