Port of Bilbao allocates funds to develop shore power

The Bilbao Port Authority has allocated nearly €50.1 million (around $56.7 million) to install electrical infrastructure for shore power supply at the port.

IMAGE: An aerial view of the Port of Bilbao. Port of Bilbao

Following this project, vessels arriving at the port will be able to switch off their auxiliary engines, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The project is currently in its second phase, focusing on electrifying Docks A1, A2, A6, AZ3, and Getxo 2 and 3, which serve container, ferry, ro-pax, ro-ro, and cruise traffic.

As part of the project, the port’s power lines will be upgraded to supply 30 megawatts (MW) of electricity. 11 onshore power supply (OPS) connection points will be installed, along with 20 power outlets to provide vessels power regardless of their berthing location.

The second phase is expected to be completed by 2027.

Part of the energy used will come from renewable sources, such as solar photovoltaic panels, the port authority said.

The project is co-financed by the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), the Bilbao Port Authority, and a loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB).

The contract was awarded to a joint venture composed of Sampol Ingeniería y Obras, Comsa Instalaciones y Sistemas Industriales, and Montajes Eléctricos San Ignacio.

By Tuhin Roy

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