Dear readers, this week we travel from Latin America to India passing by Norway. The e-momentum keeps building-up, however higher costs in US projects may present a challenge for some ports. Enjoy this edition!

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Top News

• Candela secures funding: Candela has secured $14M to expand its fleet of eco-friendly hydrofoiling boats and announced the first U.S. sale of its P-12 electric ferry, set to operate on Lake Tahoe. This technology reduces emissions and water resistance while offering a greener alternative for commuters. READ MORE

• Fjord1 advances autonomous zero-emission project: Fjord1 has contracted Norwegian Electric Systems (NES) for onshore charging stations to power its four autonomous, zero-emission ferries on Norway’s Lavik-Oppedal route. The ferries will recharge in just 10 minutes, supported by advanced automation and sustainable technology. NES, also handling power systems and navigation, marks this as its third major contract for the project. READ MORE

• Latin America’s first electric tug: Chile is set to receive its first electric tugboat, the ElectRA, built by Sanmar and designed by Robert Allan Ltd. This groundbreaking vessel, set to operate at Puerto Chacabuco in 2025, promises to cut CO2 emissions by 100% compared to current operations. With 70+ tonnes of bollard pull, it supports SAAM Towage’s ambitious 2030 sustainability goals of reducing fleet emissions and advancing clean propulsion technologies. READ MORE

• Bilbao secures €55.4M for OPS: The Port of Bilbao will receive €55.4 million to install renewable-powered onshore power supply, allowing ships to turn off engines while docked, cutting emissions and fuel use. An additional €13 million will fund solar panels to power the system, advancing Spain's 2050 carbon neutrality goals. READ MORE

• US Ports face rising costs for decarbonization: Ports in the Pacific Northwest, including Seattle and Tacoma, are seeing steep rises in shore power installation costs, with some projects increasing tenfold, such as Terminal 18’s costs jumping from $8M to $80M. Despite abundant clean hydroelectric power, ports are targeting further emissions reductions due to community pressure. Infrastructure upgrades and grid constraints, especially in Seattle, are key challenges, while Tacoma benefits from surplus capacity. READ MORE

• Vadhavan Port’s transformative initiative for india’s trade: The Vadhavan greenfield port in Maharashtra, set for completion by 2034, aims to double India's container trade and rank among the world's top 10 ports. With nine terminals, deep draughts for mega vessels, and state-of-the-art facilities, it will significantly lower logistics costs and enhance transshipment capacity. READ MORE

• Damen expands OPS at shipyard: Damen Shiprepair Oranjewerf has upgraded its shore power system to support all vessel types, including offshore, navy, and fishing ships requiring 60 Hz power. The enhanced system reduces reliance on diesel generators, significantly cutting emissions. With a capacity of 355A, it can deliver 250kVA, expandable via batteries or additional sources. Developed with Elma Systems, this innovation underscores Damen’s commitment to sustainability and cleaner operations. READ MORE