Igoumenitsa Sets Sail Toward a Greener Future with New Onshore Power Infrastructure
The Port of Igoumenitsa, a vital gateway in the Adriatic-Ionian corridor, has officially transitioned from the planning phase to implementation of its ambitious maritime electrification strategy.
This month, the Hellenic Electricity Distribution Network Operator (HEDNO S.A.) signed a landmark contract with Paralos S.A. for the construction of three Onshore Power Supply (OPS) positions, marking a critical milestone for Greece’s "Green Port" initiatives.
Strategic Infrastructure for the Adriatic
The project, which carries high strategic importance for the modernization of the country’s port infrastructure, involves the installation of:
- Two 3 MVA power positions designed for larger Ro-Pax and passenger vessels.
- One 0.5 MVA power position to serve smaller vessels at the port.
This infrastructure will allow ships to shut down their auxiliary diesel engines while at berth, drawing electricity directly from the Greek distribution network. This "cold ironing" process is expected to drastically reduce local air pollution (CO2, NOx, and particulate matter) and noise levels, directly benefiting the residents of Igoumenitsa.
Funding and Collaboration: The ALFION-INFRA Model
The project is a result of the ALFION-INFRA (Alternative Fuel Implementation in Igoumenitsa - Infrastructure) program, which is 85% co-funded by the European Union’s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF).
This flagship initiative is being delivered through a multi-sector collaboration including the Igoumenitsa Port Authority (OLIG), the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), and private partners such as Protasis, WMG, and Hydrus.
Aligning with European Mandates
This development is not an isolated effort but a proactive response to the EU’s "Fit for 55" package and the AFIR (Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation). Under these mandates, major TEN-T ports like Igoumenitsa must provide shore-side electricity to container and passenger vessels by 2030. By completing these works by 2027, Igoumenitsa is positioning itself well ahead of the regulatory deadline, setting a benchmark for other Mediterranean hubs.
Beyond shore power, the port’s broader sustainability roadmap includes the integration of a 1.5 MW Photovoltaic Park, high-power EV charging stations for port vehicles, and smart energy management systems to optimize the local grid.
⚓ The Igoumenitsa "Green Port" Project (ALFION-INFRA)
Project Scope & Infrastructure
- 🔌 3 x Onshore Power Supply (OPS) Connection Points
- ⚡ 2 x Large Vessel Positions (3 MVA each)
- 🛥️ 1 x Smaller Vessel Position (0.5 MVA)
- ☀️ 1.5 MW Photovoltaic Solar Park (Renewable energy source)
- 🚗 HPDC High-Power Charging Stations for electric vehicles/shuttle buses
Financials & Timing
- 💰 €7.14 Million Estimated Investment
- 🇪🇺 85% Co-funded by the EU (Connecting Europe Facility)
- 📅 18 Months Construction Duration
- 🏁 2027 Expected Completion Date
The Impact
- 🔇 Zero Noise from ships at berth
- 🌬️ Clean Air (Auxiliary engines turned OFF 🚫💨)
- 📉 480+ Tons of $CO_2$ saved annually
- ✅ 100% Aligned with EU Fit for 55 & AFIR regulations
