Barcelona makes progress on decarbonisation with its OPS system for ferries
18 June, 2025The Port of Barcelona has reached an important milestone in sustainability with the start-up of its Onshore Power Supply (OPS) system for ferries, operational since 31 March with Grimaldi. In its first two months of use, this system has avoided the emission of approximately 250,000 kg of CO₂, thanks to the electrical connection of its vessel Ciudad de Palma every time it docks. This is equivalent to the environmental impact of over 1,400 vehicles on the road in the same period.
The electricity supplied is of 100% renewable origin and allows ships to stop their engines in port, reducing not only emissions but also noise. The infrastructure has required an initial investment of €200 million and is estimated to avoid up to 1.5 million kg of CO₂ per year.
Barcelona thus becomes a benchmark for other ports, as the Port of Palma is expected to be the next to incorporate this system in 2026. The implementation of the OPS reinforces the role of the Catalan port as a pioneer in the decarbonisation of maritime transport, connecting sustainability, technology and institutional commitment.