Port of Bilbao to electrify docks
The Port Authority of Bilbao is going forward with the BilbOPS project, electrifying its container, cruise and ferry docks. A total of 11 Onshore Power Supply (OPS) connection points will be installed at the Spanish port.
The OPS of Cold Ironing technology will make it possible for vessels equipped with shore power technology to switch off auxiliary engines, thus saving fuel and reducing emissions. The port authority is also taking steps so that the supplied power will come from renewable sources. This includes setting up solar panels on the port breakwaters and parking area canopies. A study will also be conducted on the potential for constructing more wind turbines for power supply in the port facilities.
Once commissioned in 2025, the electrification of the docks will reduce CO2 emissions by 38.8%. As such, this BilbOPS project will bring Bilbao closer to achieving European Union FitFor55 targets, to reduce emissions by 55% by 2030. It will also improve the quality of life for area residents by cutting nitrogen and sulphur dioxide emission, as well as reduce the noise and vibration produced by docked vessels.
The project requires a total investment of EUR 51.8 million of which 30% will be covered through the CEF Transport 2021-2027 grant programme. The Port Authority of Bilbao and the European Commission signed the BilbOPS project grant contract in October. Following this, EUR 5 million EU pre-financing payment was made to start the project. A grant of EUR 4.3 million has also been obtained for the new A5 Quay through the Recovery and Resilience Facility.
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