Enel X and Fincantieri have signed a letter of intent (LoI) to build and operate port infrastructure with a low environmental impact.
In addition, the LoI calls for the development of electricity-powered solutions for ground logistics services.
In the first stage, the LoI specifically addresses: cold ironing, management and optimisation of energy exchanges in new infrastructure, electricity storage and production systems that use renewable sources and fuel cells.
The partnership will also ensure that initiatives rolled out in Italy can be replicated in other countries, such as Spain, Portugal and Greece.
The LoI might be subject to future binding agreements that the parties will define in compliance with the applicable regulatory regimes, including those relating to transactions between related parties.
This collaborative venture between Enel X, Enel’s global business line, and Fincantieri, one of the world’s largest shipbuilders, will enhance the implementation of electricity-based solutions and de-carbonise ports.
A growing number of ports and docks in Italy, and in other European countries, will offer cold ironing.
“Maritime transport accounts for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions. It is estimated that CO2 emissions from the maritime sector amount to 940 mill tonnes every year, or 2.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Enel and Fincantieri are joining forces to promote the de-carbonisation of powering docked ships,” said Eliano Russo, Head of e-Industries at Enel X.
“Ninety per cent of Europe’s ports are located in metropolitan areas, and public opinion in many cities has decried the pollution, noise and vibrations caused by the engines of docked ships. Development of cold ironing infrastructure will prevent this, as docked ships will have an electrical connection onshore. Today, digitalisation, sustainability and innovation allow us to offer smart, efficient technologies that will reboot Europe’s port and maritime sectors,” he said.
Laura Luigia Martini, CEO Business Advisor and Executive Vice President of Corporate Business Development at Fincantieri, added: “Developing smart, integrated infrastructures and safeguarding the region would catapult the national port system to a new level characterised by sustainability principles.
“Through the agreements with Enel X, we will make our skill set available to a highly innovative programme, laying the foundation for an authentically digital and green transition that will reverberate throughout Italy’s maritime economy, and beyond,” he said.
