Port of Bilbao to connect vessels to shore power

Spain's Port of Bilbao plans to deliver electricity from renewable sources to docked vessels.

PHOTO: Bilbao's getxo 3 cruise terminal. Port of Bilbao

Combining onshore power supply with other measures, the port estimates it can reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 40%.

The port authority will set up shore power systems at seven of its docks. To achieve this, the port will install three distribution centers, 11 transformation centers and 11 shore power connection points in the docks.

The systems will have capacity of 1-12MW and power all kinds of vessels in port, it says.

Installations will be carried out this and next year.

The port seeks to generate electricity through solar and wave energy, and further expand its wind power capacity.