The debate about the return with a vengeance of hundreds of cruise ships that sailed in search of new experiences in port cities before the pandemic and the pollution they carry with them when they arrive at a new destination has also been reopened. And in this discussion, two Spanish port operators rank first in terms of carbon emissions. Barcelona emerged as Europe’s most polluted port last year, with cruise ships emitting almost three times more sulfur oxides (SOx) than all cars in the city, while Palma de Mallorca ranked third behind Civitavecchia (Rome). Report prepared by Transport and Environment. The port network is electrifying its infrastructure to decarbonise its operations. To complete this transformation Spanish ports will create more than 1,000 jobs to implement OPS systems (onshore power supply) reduces carbon emissions.
These are the conclusions drawn from the report ‘Target 2030: Towards 100% electrification of Spanish ports’ by maritime consultancy Ocean Capital Partners (OCP). The adaptation of port infrastructure to the new sustainable reality is driven by European regulations requiring ports to implement OPS systems in their facilities before 2030. In the case of Spain, these readjustments Investment of approximately 500 million Euros for 48 port operations Ports that make up the port network, according to calculations made by State Ports. However, the individual amount varies depending on the characteristics of each infrastructure and whether it receives public assistance for this purpose. For example, the Government has introduced bonuses on port taxes, a series of subsidies for investments in OPS technology and reductions in electricity duty, among other incentives, to encourage comprehensive electrification of the port network.
Completing these studies is of great importance for a sector that is under the spotlight due to the environmental impact of its activities. According to figures calculated by OCP, there will be a reduction in emissions of around 50-60% depending on the energy mix used in Spain, where renewable generation currently accounts for 42% of total demand. If the electricity system manages to rely solely on renewable energy by 2050, emissions from ships will be reduced by 100%. In quantitative terms, Emission reduction potential will reach 65%, i.e. approximately 600,000 tonnes of CO2 per year. So this would be equivalent to emissions from 100,000 national air operations.
Electrification of ports not only aims to reduce the carbon emissions of the sector, but also provides an advantage for the cities where the ports are located. For example, this can be reduced by using new electric motors on ships docking in ports to reduce noise in and around the docks. But this is also a financial advantage. Starting from 2024, It will come into force gradually until 2026. Reform of the European Union emissions trading scheme (RDCE) for shipping. The RDCE will apply to all emissions from ships on their journeys between European ports, ships during their stay and 50% of emissions between EU ports and ports of third countries. “This regulatory change will have a strong economic impact for all ship owners exceeding the established emissions limit,” says the OCP.
Challenges to be overcome before 2030
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Despite the benefits and the EU’s regulatory obligation, there are still issues to be addressed. One of these is the state’s effort to solve the problem. Weakness of the electrical grid in the area called the last port mile. OCP states that “it is difficult for the private sector to make investments that will ensure that this network has sufficient capacity to undertake the supply of large ships.” The payment will also help meet deadlines before 2030, mainly to obtain permits that distribution companies need to build the necessary facilities or from city councils to open pipelines with the city’s electricity networks.
Another problem with the execution of the project is Definition of the correct power according to boat type Arriving at the port area. Therefore, the new infrastructure needs to take into account a wide range of factors such as the length, equipment or age of the boat, among other characteristics. The final challenge for ports is linked to the specific frequency of electricity supply. In most cases, it will be necessary to include a frequency converter in the OPS system, a solution that will increase the port’s total investment.