KAINDAR: smart infrastructure for port decarbonisation and electrification

The challenge

The European Union and Spain have set an ambitious target: to electrify all state ports by 2030 as a key measure to decarbonise maritime transport. Achieving this goal requires the deployment of intelligent electrical networks (Smart Grids) capable of operating bidirectionally, enabling both vessel charging and energy injection into the grid during peak demand. The main challenge lies in developing infrastructures that can integrate renewable energy sources, ensure a stable power supply, and minimise the use of fossil fuels in port areas.

The solution

In this context, KAINDAR was launched as a demonstration project developed by five organisations from Gipuzkoa to design, install, and evaluate, under real operating conditions, a new mobile electric charging infrastructure at the Port of Pasaia.

The solution integrates:

• Renewable energy sources, combining wind and solar power as clean electricity supply.
• An energy storage system based on batteries, ensuring autonomy and supply stability.
• Cold Ironing technology, allowing vessels to shut down their engines while berthed, significantly reducing emissions and noise.
• A transportable design, enabling replication and testing of the system in other ports.
• A circular economy approach, exploring the use of recycled or second-life materials and components (batteries, reused modules, etc.).

The results

• The first renewable electric charging infrastructure installed and tested at the Port of Pasaia, suitable for recreational vessels, fishing boats, auxiliary ships, and port operations.
• A significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and atmospheric pollutants from fuel combustion, along with lower noise pollution.
• A replicable and easily transportable system, opening the door to deployment in other ports.
• A model fully aligned with the energy transition and circular economy, integrating renewables and exploring second-life components.

KAINDAR positions itself as a key project to accelerate port electrification and move towards more sustainable, quieter, and emission-free ports.