Port of Bilbao Enhances Sustainability with Shore Power and Solar Energy Integration

The Port of Bilbao, Spain, has been granted permission to build a photovoltaic solar plant to supply renewable energy to vessels at two of its cruise docks, Getxo 2 and Getxo 3. This initiative marks a substantial move towards a shore power supply system that aligns with the maritime industry’s sustainability objectives.

The electrification project, co-funded by the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) and the Bilbao Port Authority, is currently in the tendering phase. Planning and approval for construction are forecasted to take six months, followed by an installation period of approximately 24 months, with both dock electrification and solar panels expected to be operational by 2027.

The cruise terminal will include three shore power connection points to enable two vessels to dock simultaneously. In addition, the Getxo 3 berth will have two connection points, with one operational at a time.

These connection points have been designed for adaptability, featuring a mobile system that covers 100 meters and supports voltages of 6.6 kV and 11 kV, with various frequency options and a maximum capacity of 16 MVA per berth. The solar plant, located on the terminal car park roofs, is expected to produce 0.5 megawatts of power, optimizing space for renewable energy generation.

On November 28, Spain’s Council of Ministers approved a EUR 13 million investment for the "BilbOPS" project, signaling a strong commitment to sustainable port operations.

In an effort to attract cruise tourists, the Port is enhancing its offerings by promoting unique local experiences. Among these initiatives is a guided tour of the Athletic Club Bilbao, a football club known for its dedication to players from the Basque region. Tickets for the tour cost EUR 15 and include an English audio guide, adding cultural richness to the experiences available to cruise passengers.

The BilbOPS project and new visitor experiences position the Port of Bilbao as a leader in sustainable and passenger-focused cruise operations.


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