The following is an unaltered reprint of a press release provided to Must Read Alaska on 4/29/2026 by Chugach Electric Media Contact Julie Hasquet.
ANCHORAGE, Alaska—The Alaska Energy Authority (AEA), Chugach Electric Association, Inc., and Carnival Corporation today announced continued progress on the Whittier Shore Power Project, a port electrification investment that enables cruise ships calling on Whittier to plug into shore‑based electrical power instead of operating diesel generators while docked. Crews are actively constructing the project, with operations expected to begin in spring 2027.
AEA is providing $9.4 million in State of Alaska funding to support the project. Chugach Electric is contributing $7.8 million, and Carnival Corporation, the world’s largest cruise company, is contributing $9.1 million, bringing total matching corporate contributions to $16.9 million. Combined, these investments bring total project funding to $26.3 million. State cruise ship head tax revenue will help support this effort.
As a port electrification project, the Whittier Shore Power Project will allow cruise ships to turn off their engines and connect to shoreside power while docked, reducing emissions, noise, and fuel use and helping improve local air quality in Whittier.
The project includes electrical system upgrades and specialized equipment near the cruise dock to safely convert and deliver power from the local grid to large vessels. By replacing onboard diesel generation with electricity supplied by local utilities, port electrification supports Alaska’s clean energy economy while delivering environmental and community benefits at Alaska cruise ship docks.
“This project is a meaningful example of how strategic partnerships can deliver long term benefits for Alaska’s communities,” said AEA Executive Director Curtis W. Thayer. “By investing in shore power infrastructure, we’re reducing emissions, supporting economic activity in Whittier, and putting federal and state energy investments to work in a way that delivers real, measurable value for Alaskans.”
“This investment represents a meaningful commitment to the Whittier community— enhancing reliability, strengthening environmental performance, and delivering long term value,” said Chugach CEO Arthur Miller. “Residents and visitors alike will experience improved air quality and reduced noise, as we continue modernizing our infrastructure in support of the communities we serve.”
Carnival Corporation, whose world‑class cruise lines call regularly on Whittier as part of Alaska itineraries, has been a partner in advancing the project.
“Shore power investments like this directly support the guest experience while reflecting our long-standing commitment to being a responsible partner in Alaska,” said Ralph Samuels, vice president, community and government affairs, Holland America Princess Alaska Operations. “By working closely with AEA and Chugach Electric, we’re helping reduce emissions in port, protect the destinations our guests cherish and support the communities that welcome our ships year after year.”
Project teams have already begun work, with additional construction planned for the upcoming summer season. Shore power infrastructure allows vessels to connect directly to the local electrical grid while docked, dramatically reducing diesel emissions and improving conditions for nearby residents, workers, and visitors.
AEA, Chugach Electric, and Carnival Corporation will share additional updates as construction progresses.
About the Alaska Energy Authority
The Alaska Energy Authority is a public corporation of the state. Its mission is advancing affordable, reliable energy in Alaska. AEA leads the development of critical energy infrastructure, strengthens resilience, reliability, and redundancy across Alaska’s energy systems, and supports statewide economic growth by enabling secure, long‑term energy solutions for communities, utilities, and industry. To learn more, visit akenergyauthority.org.
About Chugach Electric
Chugach Electric Association, Inc. is the largest electric utility in Alaska serving nearly 89,000 members at over 113,000 service locations. Chugach’s service territory extends from Anchorage to the northern Kenai Peninsula, westward to Tyonek and eastward to Whittier. Chugach originated as an Alaska electric cooperative in 1948, designed exclusively to serve its members.
About Carnival Corporation & plc
Carnival Corporation & plc is the largest global cruise company and among the largest leisure travel companies, with a portfolio of world class cruise lines – AIDA Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Seabourn. To learn more about Carnival Corporation’s purpose and our positive impact worldwide on people and the planet, go to www.carnivalcorp.com/impact.
