The Council of Ministers has approved a €55.4 million investment to electrify key docks at the Port of Bilbao.
This move, proposed by the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, is a step in reducing emissions and aligning with the port’s broader energy transition goals under the ambitious BilbOPS project. Currently, ships rely on auxiliary engines during their stay, contributing to air and noise pollution. With the new onshore power supply (OPS) infrastructure, vessels will be able to connect directly to the electrical grid, allowing them to switch off their engines entirely while docked.
Furthermore, the investment will fund the construction of an electricity substation, high-voltage subsea cables, and sophisticated distribution lines designed to deliver power at specific voltage and frequency levels tailored to maritime needs. The infrastructure will extend across key docks, including A1, A2, A6, AZ3, and Getxo 2 and 3. The initiative also includes provisions for ongoing operation and maintenance, ensuring long-term reliability and efficiency.
In addition, the project will rely on renewable energy sources. The OPS network will initially be powered by solar energy from photovoltaic panels, with plans to integrate wind power in future phases. This sustainable energy strategy aligns with broader EU climate objectives.
The funding for this transformative project is a collaborative effort, co-financed by the EU’s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) and the Bilbao Port Authority. This partnership highlights the growing recognition of ports as critical players in Europe’s push towards a greener transport sector.
