The DECARBONLIM project, an initiative aimed at advancing Limassol’s goal of achieving zero greenhouse gas emissions, officially commenced on November 18 with the inaugural meeting of its consortium partners. The event was hosted at the DP World Limassol terminal, offering participants a comprehensive overview of the project and the port's operations.

DECARBONLIM, or the "Integrated Approach to Alternative Marine Power for the Port of Limassol," is led by the Cyprus Ports Authority in collaboration with Frederick University, DP World Limassol, Eurogate Ltd, the Electricity Authority of Cyprus, the Cyprus Transmission System Operator, and the Municipality of Limassol. The project’s primary aim is to develop a feasibility study for the construction of shore-side power infrastructure, enabling docked ships to connect to local electricity grids instead of relying on their engines.

This method, known as Cold Ironing, drastically reduces carbon dioxide emissions and noise pollution from ship engines while improving air quality and public health for port workers and nearby residents. The study will carefully evaluate the technical, economic, legal, and operational aspects to ensure the project’s practicality and sustainability.

The project is financed by the European Climate, Infrastructure, and Environment Executive Agency under the European Commission. By implementing shore-side power systems, DECARBONLIM aligns with the objectives of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) and the EU’s Green Deal, fostering environmentally sustainable and efficient transportation networks. Moreover, the project’s outcomes aim to provide replicable expertise for similar implementations in other ports across Europe.

Frederick University’s research team highlighted the importance of a thorough study to avoid pitfalls encountered in other large-scale development projects. DP World Limassol’s CEO, Simon Pitout, emphasized the project’s significance in enhancing the port’s competitiveness, while Angelos Menelaou, Head of the Department of Maritime and Commerce at Frederick University, connected the initiative to Limassol’s commitment to the City Climate Covenant.

The meeting also featured presentations on the technical specifications and implementation strategy for Cold Ironing, guided by key stakeholders such as Cyprus Ports Authority coordinator Markellos Sergiou and Frederick University researchers. Attendees included prominent figures like Dimitris Katsis, Limassol’s Vice Mayor, and former Mayor Nikos Nicolaides, who initiated Limassol’s climate commitment.