MADRID, 25 Dic. (EUROPA PRESS) -

The 48 ports of general interest of the State in Spain will require a total investment of 450 million euros until 2030 to electrify operations at cruise, ferry and container docks.

This has been calculated by Ocean Capital Partners (OCP), an international firm specialized in the port sector based in Madrid, estimating the creation of more than 1,000 new direct and indirect jobs due to the implementation of these electrification projects.

In an analysis, it details that the lack of power near the ports requires the construction of infrastructure, such as electrical substations, that expand the electrical generation capacity, with the consequent increase in the cost of investment.

This poses several challenges, such as the length of the temporary deadlines, since permits are needed from the distribution companies to build the necessary facilities, and from the city councils to open pipelines with the city's electrical networks.

Until recently, ships used to use their own auxiliary engines to cover their electrical needs, but this situation has evolved rapidly due to the need to adapt to the energy transition.

Added to this is the speed imposed by current European regulations, which establishes that all Spanish ports must be electrified by 2030 and the electricity supplied to ships must come from 100% renewable energy sources.

By eliminating the consumption of fossil fuels through auxiliary engines, we contribute to both the reduction of CO2 emissions and polluting particles and gases. In addition, access to the electricity supply through a direct connection to the port significantly reduces noise and vibrations during the ships' stay in port.

As a whole, the energy transition in all ports in Spain will require an investment of more than 4.5 billion euros, destined mainly to the implementation of renewable energy sources, the electrification of port facilities and the production of biofuels for ships.