Caribbean-EU Study Visit: Paving the Way for Sustainable and Decarbonized Ports

From October 12 to October 16, 2026, a Caribbean delegation of Chairmen and Ministers participated in an intensive five-day EU-PMAC study visit across Europe under the Global Gateway initiative, focusing on port sustainability, decarbonization, and digitalization. Spanning three major maritime hubs—Hamburg (Germany), La Valetta (Malta), and Genoa (Italy)—the program provided vital insights into green port technologies, shore power implementation, and integrated energy management. We extend our sincere gratitude to the European Union for making this valuable study visit possible.

Day 1: Hamburg, Germany – Smart & Automated Port Operations The study visit commenced on October 12 in Hamburg.

·         Green Ports Hamburg: The delegation explored sustainable port initiatives alongside Managing Director Mr. George Moustakas.

·         Container Terminal Altenwerder (CTA - HHLA): Guided by Dr. Sven Barkhahn (HPC), participants observed state-of-the-art automated terminal operations, equipment electrification, and digital cargo flow optimizations.

·         Digitalization & Decarbonization: Sessions led by Mr. Gerald Hirt at the Hamburg Vessel Coordination Center (HVCC) and Mr. Carsten Pottharst (HPC) highlighted real-time data exchange, port call optimization, and investment strategies transferable to Caribbean ports.

Day 2 – 4: Valletta, Malta – Scaling Shore Power and Integrated Energy Systems From October 13 to October 15, the delegation based itself in Malta for high-level conferences, workshops, and technical site visits:

·         DTF Conference & Keynotes: Discussions centered on aligning ship readiness with port infrastructure, managing national grid capacities for 24/7 port electrification, and overcoming grid constraints through microgrids and battery storage systems.

·         Vessel Site Visit: Participants stepped aboard the MSC World Europe for a sustainability-focused tour and presentation exploring below-deck environmental technologies.

·         Institutional Dialogues: The delegation met with Maltese government officials—including Dr. Chris Bonett (Minister for Sustainable Mobility) and Dr. Miriam Dalli (Minister for Environment, Energy & the Regeneration of the Grand Harbour)—as well as leadership at Transport Malta and the Malta Freeport Corporation to discuss island-specific maritime strategies and regional cooperation.

Day 5: Genoa, Italy – Training the Next Generation & Expanding OPS The final leg on October 16 brought the delegation to Genoa:

·         Institutional Briefings: Hosted by the Western Ligurian Sea Port Authority, the EU Delegation, and the University of Genoa’s "Centro del Mare," discussions focused on serving northern European trade corridors and advancing blue economy education.

·         The Italian Maritime Academy: A visit to Palazzo Tabarca showcased high-level professional training programs and advanced simulation systems for the maritime and logistics sectors.

·         Onshore Power Supply (OPS): The program concluded with a technical overview of Genoa's expanding OPS facilities designed to handle massive electrical loads and slash greenhouse gas emissions, followed by a comprehensive boat tour of the port infrastructure.

This comprehensive European study visit equips Caribbean port leaders with actionable knowledge and strategic partnerships to accelerate regional decarbonization, foster resilient island energy systems, and meet future global environmental targets.