The project aims to gradually increase the energy self-sufficiency of the Port of Savona. At present, the construction of the "Port Grid" integrated energy system in the Port of Savona and the installation of photovoltaic equipment in six port warehouses are proceeding in strict accordance with the schedule. These projects are part of Italy's "National Recovery and Resilience Plan" (PNRR) and "Green Ports" plan, the core goal is to promote the decarbonization of the logistics industry. The project is committed to building an advanced energy infrastructure to achieve the deep integration of renewable energy generation, energy storage systems and intelligent flow management. The new photovoltaic power plant will generate clean energy and efficiently store and redistribute it within the port area, while supporting the charging of electric vehicles.
The two battery energy storage systems (BESS) that have been completed so far use lithium-ion battery technology to ensure continuous power supply at night or when there is insufficient light. In terms of power infrastructure, three new substations have been completed, one of which is about to be completed, and the modernization and interconnection of existing substations are also being carried out simultaneously to ensure the full integration of the system. In addition, the internal electric transportation network of the first port area has been put into use, and a total of 10 charging piles have been installed in the area.
The operation of the entire system will be controlled by the energy management system (EMS) platform, which will coordinate the production, storage and distribution of energy in real time, giving priority to self-generated energy and only connecting to the national grid when necessary. In terms of renewable energy power generation, photovoltaic installation in warehouses T2, T3, T4, T7, T8 and MLM has entered an advanced stage and is expected to be completed by the end of June 2026. Overall, the project has reached about 70% progress.
After the project is completed and tested for about three months, the system will supply power to various port infrastructure, including customs gates, public lighting, port administrative office space and electric vehicle charging stations. Secretary-General Tito Wesbasiani said: "This project is a substantial step in the energy transformation process of the Port of Savona. It will directly increase the port's energy autonomy, reduce carbon emissions and promote the overall modernization of infrastructure. The completion of the Port Grid system marks the structural evolution of the port: from a single logistics node to an efficient platform integrating energy production, management and utilization. This is essential to reduce emissions, improve process efficiency and promote the green transformation of the entire port system. The ongoing projects in Savona and Genoa are fully aligned with the objectives of the PNRR 'Green Ports' programme, which is to achieve sustainable development of port activities through energy efficiency optimization and the use of renewable energy. In this context, Port Grid is regarded as one of the most advanced projects in our port system."