IMPROVING THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY OF PORT FACILITIES AND THEIR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT USING SOLAR ENERGY: EVIDENCE FROM ROMANIA

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to find solutions for improving the energy efficiency of port facilities and operations to reduce carbon footprint and achieve sustainable development. Ports are important gateways for international commerce, and they are a vital part of the global transportation network. However, there is a notable deficiency in terms of improving energy efficiency and integrating renewable energy into port facilities and operations. It is found that port authorities in the maritime domain face major challenges in reducing electricity consumption and carbon footprint by supporting increased resilience and energy efficiency. This study provides solutions for port authorities regarding the implementation of solutions to increase the energy efficiency of port buildings. This paper aims to summarize the application of EDGE platform to identify different solutions using photovoltaic panels and different measures that were simulated with the aim of improving the energy efficiency of the port facilities. The data and model used targeted the port of Constanta in Romania. The use of solar energy as a renewable energy source for the port of Constanta is based on the location of this facility in an area with high solar radiation. The research results indicate a payback of the investment from the revenues generated from the sale of energy produced by the PV plant in less than 9 years and a carbon footprint reduction of 197.2 tCO2 /year. The use of batteries for electrical energy storage contributes significantly to a better integration of renewable sources in port facilities and operations. The research results show that there is great potential for ports to increase the energy efficiency of their facilities and operations, offering such future research opportunities.