BEST shorepower marks first anniversary

Since then, the system has been used 30 times, avoiding 2,310 tonnes of CO₂ emissions and delivering nearly 3.4 million kWh of 100% renewable electricity.

“This year we have launched the OPS system on 30 occasions with 17 different ships,” said Ana Arévalo, head of the Shorepower division at the Port of Barcelona.

“We have managed to integrate a very complex and innovative operation within our existing operations, always prioritising safety and efficiency.”

The system, which is concluding its two-year pilot phase, has proven adaptable, serving mainly 24,000 teu vessels, but also a 5,000 teu ship. While most connections have involved MSC ships, CMA CGM vessels have also been linked, demonstrating cross-company applicability. On average, ships remained connected for 54 hours, with one record-setting 91-hour connection, the longest at a European port to date.

The OPS not only reduces emissions but also generates critical operational data. These insights are helping port authorities optimise future rollouts as part of the Nexigen Plan, which will electrify the main wharves at the Port of Barcelona to improve air quality.

Following the pilot’s success, work has begun on OPS infrastructure for cruise ships at the MSC terminal, a new port substation and a medium-voltage network to support full-scale deployment across the port.