On 30 December 2024, the Southern Adriatic Sea Port Authority finalised the procurement process for the works and technical engineering and architectural services required for the quay electrification, also known as cold ironing. The contract, worth over €28 million, was awarded to a Temporary Consortium of Companies led by the Consorzio Stabile Cantiere Italia, based in Naples.
The plan entails the installation of two electrification systems, one for each port. At Bari, two berths at the Darsena di Ponente will be electrified, supported by a 16 MVA power converter to supply energy to ro-ro/ro-pax vessels and cruise ships. At Brindisi, the system will enable simultaneous power supply for two ro-ro/ro-pax vessels at the Punta delle Terrare quay, using a 6.5 MW power converter designed for future expansion.
Both ports will also see the construction of photovoltaic systems to produce renewable energy. These facilities, located in Bari and Brindisi respectively, will help reduce the energy demand for cold ironing and power additional port services such as public lighting and logistics operations.
“With cold ironing, we are transforming the ports of Bari and Brindisi into green lungs for maritime transport,” said Vincenzo Leone, the extraordinary commissioner of the Port Authority. “These initiatives not only improve the quality of life for port communities and surrounding areas but also mark a historic shift towards a future where economic growth and environmental sustainability finally go hand in hand.”
