Shipping, as a critical pillar of international trade, is redefining its role in a new landscape of stricter environmental requirements and rapid technological advancement. The growing demand for high-quality services with a low environmental footprint, aligned with the guidelines of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the European Union, is shaping a dynamically evolving sector.

A key driver of this transition is the use of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) and the extensive electrification of ports and ships, aiming to reduce CO₂ emissions by 55% by 2030 (as part of the “Fit for 55” initiative). In this context, the installation of Shore Side Electricity (SSE) systems, also known as Cold Ironing, is one of the most mature and effective solutions. Major European ports are already planning significant investments in Cold Ironing systems to serve passenger ships, cruise liners, and container vessels.

The "PROTEUS" Team: expertise and experience at the heart of energy transition
The successful implementation of such highly complex projects requires a combination of interdisciplinary knowledge, technological specialization, and strategic collaboration. The PROTEUS team exemplifies a successful synergy between academia and the private sector, consisting of PROTASIS Engineering and Consulting S.A., HYDRUS Engineering S.A., GATES – Global Transport and Engineering Systems Ltd, and the Laboratory for Maritime Transport at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA).

With nearly a decade of experience, the team provides comprehensive services in the study, design, and implementation of Cold Ironing systems, delivering measurable results both in Greece and abroad. From the pilot installation at the Port of Kyllini in 2016 to technical and environmental studies in key Greek ports (Piraeus, Thessaloniki, Igoumenitsa) and international ports (Constanta, Burgas), the PROTEUS team actively supports the transition to sustainable, digital, and energy-efficient ports.

The team covers all necessary stages for the implementation of energy upgrade projects, offering:

  • Securing funding for studies and implementation through European and national resources.
  • Preparation of all essential technical studies, including:
    • Port traffic analysis and forecasting,
    • FEED (Front-End Engineering Design) studies,
    • Environmental and feasibility studies,
    • Cost-Benefit Analyses (CBA),
    • Drafting technical specifications and tender documents.
  • Support for public and private entities regarding regulatory frameworks and international standards for port energy upgrades.

The interdisciplinary approach of the PROTEUS team extends beyond vessels subject to mandatory Cold Ironing (passenger ships, cruise ships, and container vessels) to include general cargo ships, tankers, and freighters, offering tailored solutions for multi-purpose ports.

PROTEUS PROTASIS HYDRUS GATES NTUA LOGOS

Strategic Prioritization and Co-Funded Cold Ironing Projects
In compliance with EU regulations and the "Fit for 55" legislative package, the PROTEUS team has successfully completed a milestone project for prioritizing Greek ports that are required to provide Cold Ironing infrastructure by 2030. The project involved:

  • Identifying ports subject to the electricity supply obligation for ships,
  • Prioritizing and categorizing them based on specific criteria.

The results of this study will be used by the relevant authorities to secure funding and develop the necessary infrastructure.

At the same time, over the past decade, the PROTEUS team has actively participated in numerous co-funded projects through European programs such as the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF). Notable initiatives supporting Cold Ironing include:

The Future: Smart and Green Ports
Looking ahead to the challenges of the green transition, the PROTEUS team goes beyond conventional systems and is actively investing in the creation of smart ports through advanced microgrids.

The solutions they develop address modern port needs for:

  • Self-generation and energy storage
  • Load balancing and peak management
  • Electric vehicle charging infrastructure
  • Centralized Energy Management Systems (HEMCS)
  • Development of infrastructure for new green fuels and technologies

Through this multi-layered strategy, the PROTEUS team supports the transition to a more sustainable, intelligent, and competitive maritime sector, that will be fully aligned with the energy goals set by the European Green Deal.