Solar pavement boosts port efficiency

This pilot test, carried out within the European RENEWPORT project, introduces innovative photovoltaic panels that double as pavement, enabling clean energy generation without occupying additional space. 

By using these walkable solar panels, the port is looking to demonstrate how renewable energy solutions can be integrated seamlessly into daily port activity.

Long-term viability

In total, 26 one-square-metre panels have been fitted along the sidewalk to the main Port Authority of Valencia (APV) parking area, creating a 30 m² surface with 5.2 kWp of installed capacity.

Each 34 millimetre thick panel is engineered to be fully safe for pedestrian use, meeting UNE anti-slip standards and withstanding continuous foot traffic.

With 200 W peak power per unit, the system feeds into a 10 kW Huawei inverter that supplies electricity to nearby APV buildings, supporting lighting and air-conditioning needs.

The pavement was installed by Facilities Engineering & Services (FES) Valencia and Solum developed, manufactured and supplied the panels.

The installation is looking to see a significant improvement from an earlier 2021 prototype on the port’s north dock, which produced just 1 kWp across 6 m².

Results from the new pilot will be closely monitored, measuring energy production, maintenance needs and long-term viability. The study will also assess how this technology can be scaled and integrated into the port’s network to enhance port electrification and reduce emissions.

RENEWPORT, co-funded by the Interreg EURO-MED program, aims to strengthen solar power and renewable energy generation across Mediterranean ports, supporting a more sustainable maritime ecosystem and enabling ports to produce and manage their own clean energy.