Imequadri Duestelle and Imemont have long been committed to developing solutions that reduce the use of fossil fuels in favor of greater energy efficiency. This commitment goes beyond the promotion of photovoltaic systems in civil and industrial sectors or the expansion of electric transport—it also involves the development of technologies and processes to adapt maritime transport, one of the most polluting sectors today, to EU regulations. These regulations require ports to adopt shore power (cold ironing) systems by 2025 to significantly reduce emissions. Consolidating their leadership in energy transition sectors, Imequadri and Imemont are actively engaged in several projects aimed at modernising Italian ports.
Imequadri has provided MT multi-voltage switchboards from the Minibloc6 series (15, 11, and 6 kV; 50 or 60 Hz), equipped with self-regulating protection systems based on voltage and frequency levels. Thanks to advanced conversion systems, these switchboards will power ships docked in the ports of Genoa and Savona.
Imemont was awarded the contract for the construction of the SSE (Electrical Substation) in the Port of Livorno. The company will manage the entire executive design and take care of: the supply, installation, and connection of MV equipment; installation and connection of HV transformers; and electrical connections of the enclosed switchgear. The substation is expected to be operational by 2025.
WHAT IS COLD IRONING?
Cold ironing refers to the process of electrifying port docks to significantly reduce emissions, by supplying ships with electricity directly from the shore. This eliminates the need to keep their engines running or rely on onboard generators to maintain operations.
Considering that cruise ships in the Mediterranean produce more CO₂ annually than all cars in the EU combined, the benefits of cold ironing are clear:
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significant reduction in CO₂ emissions, improving air quality and reducing environmental impact;
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decrease in noise pollution from ship engines;
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enhanced quality of life for residents living near ports (as in the case of Genoa, where the port is very close to the city center).
A concrete step toward environmental preservation that also benefits local communities living near port areas.