Italian cold ironing pilot project

The retrofit project envisages the installation of an energy storage system on board a Costa Cruises vessel, combined with the development of a shore-side power supply and recharging system. The aim of the refitting will be to transform a Costa cruise ship into a zero-emission ship from its entry into port until its exit, including while at quayside, which is equivalent to half of an operating day.

The MoU was signed by Enel’s Director for Italy, Nicola Lanzetta, and the General Manager of Costa Crociere, Mario Zanetti. 

The MoU also includes a commitment to lobby for the simplification and incentivization of energy efficiency, electrification, and renewable energy production in ports, especially in port areas within city environments. Around one third of the Costa fleet is ready to take advantage of cold ironing (onshore power supply) before the implementation of ‘cold ironing’ projects in the main Italian and Mediterranean ports.

The two companies also aim to develop initiatives related to sustainable electric mobility, in both the port and city areas, aimed at progressively reducing noise and atmospheric emissions, including from cruise-related activities such as shore excursions or intermodal connections between cities and ports.

The collaboration can also be extended abroad to the countries where the two groups operate, particularly Spain.