Bilbao Port joins maritime tech collab

The platform is focused on building a shared vision for research and development in clean, competitive and safe waterborne transport. Its aim is to shape medium- and long-term innovation, mobilise funding and align with goals such as decarbonisation and digitalisation.

“It is a great honour for us, as a port, to join this dynamic community that is driving innovation and sustainability in the maritime and inland waterway sectors,” said Ivan Jiménez Aira, president of the Bilbao Port Authority.

“At the Port of Bilbao, we firmly believe that ports have a crucial role to play in the future of sustainable transport and the decarbonisation of the logistics chain.”

Jiménez Aira highlighted the BilbOPS project as a key example of the port’s commitment, noting that ‘ports are becoming energy hubs’, with growing investments in shorepower and alternative fuels.

“Through our participation in this platform, we are eager to collaborate with fellow members, exchange ideas and share best practices. Together, we can accelerate the transition towards greener, smarter and more resilient waterborne transport,” he added.

Jaap Gebraad, Secretary General of Waterborne TP, welcomed the new member. “The application for membership by the Bilbao Port Authority further strengthens our working group ‘Ports & Logistics’,” he said. “Their insights will help shape our broader research agendas, as the waterborne sector is a highly interdependent ecosystem.”

The Port of Bilbao’s inclusion is expected to enhance Europe’s strategic push toward zero-emission maritime transport by 2050.