Ship-to-shore connection tests at the new Onshore Power Supply (OPS) facility at Savona’s Palacrociere Terminal have been successfully completed, marking a key milestone towards the full commissioning of the shoreside electricity supply infrastructure at the passenger port. The tests conducted form part of a series of activities designed to verify the procedures and equipment required to connect cruise ships to the onshore electricity grid.
The testing programme also includes a series of “dry runs”, carried out without the actual supply of electricity, to check the ship-to-shore connection procedures and ensure that all equipment operates correctly. These operations make use of a mobile Cable Management System (CMS), a self-propelled unit specifically designed to monitor and handle the power cables connecting the shoreside supply point to the vessel. The system can be positioned alongside the ship's connection point and extend the cables on board, whilst accommodating vessel movements along the quayline.
Once fully operational, the OPS facility will enable cruise ships to switch off the onboard generators and plug directly into the local electrical grid, whilst continuing to power all the services required onboard. Onshore power supply is a key tool in reducing emissions of CO₂, nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) and fine particulate matter into the atmosphere, as well as noise pollution generated by combustion engines onboard. The benefits will have a significant impact in Savona, where the cruise terminal is located alongside the old town and the historic Vecchia Darsena waterfront.
The construction of the new €10 million OPS facility has been completed on schedule and forms part of a broader clean energy transition programme currently underway at the Port of Savona. Work has also concluded on the installation of the new smart electrical grid which integrates on-site solar power production with energy storage and real-time distribution.
Together, these achievements represent a significant step in the Western Ligurian Sea Port Authority’s firm commitment to decarbonising port activities, improving energy efficiency and promoting the increased the use of renewable energy sources.
