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Portuguese ports are accelerating the transition to a more sustainable model, positioning themselves as European benchmarks in promoting decarbonization and eco- efficiency. The implementation of innovative projects, investment in green technologies, and a commitment to international sustainability goals highlight the role of Green Ports in Portugal.
This article provides a rigorous analysis, based on real data, of the main and most recent developments in national ports, with a special focus on the Port of Lisbon and the global outlook for the Portuguese port industry.
Port of Lisbon: Pioneering Sustainability
The Port of Lisbon is currently at the forefront of sustainable ports in Portugal, reinforcing its commitment to the European Green Deal through multiple strategic projects and large-scale investments. Since 2023, the Port of Lisbon Authority has been implementing an ambitious plan to install onshore electrical infrastructure using OPS (Onshore Power Supply) technology, allowing docked ships to switch off their combustion engines and connect to the port’s electrical grid.
This measure translates into a significant reduction in CO₂, NOx, SOx, and particulate emissions, improving air quality in the city’s riverside area and attracting maritime operators who prioritize environmental requirements. The project is divided into two phases: the first, budgeted at €20 million, has already seen €2.7 million invested in the installation of the high-voltage line and electrical substation; the second phase, dedicated to the terminals, will be the responsibility of the concessionaires.
The schedule for the OPS includes studies and applications for European funds (2022- 2023), the start of implementation (2023), and completion scheduled for 2027, involving stakeholders such as Lisbon Cruise Port, EDP, and municipal authorities. The first phase is expected to come into operation in 2029.
Environmental Monitoring and Responsibility
In terms of emissions monitoring, the Port of Lisbon has become the first port in southern Europe to adopt the Environmental Port Index (EPI), an innovative digital solution created in Norway that assesses ship emissions in the port in real time, covering both cargo and cruise ships. This internationally accepted tool promotes accountability among shipping companies, enabling more transparent and informed management of the environmental impact of port activity. Since 2019, the EPI has become an international benchmark, encouraging CO₂ reduction and stimulating environmentally responsible practices in 39 European and Scandinavian ports.
APL publicly highlighted the role of the EPI and transparency in environmental monitoring, publishing the study “Air Quality Monitoring in the vicinity of the Lisbon Cruise Terminal” in October 2024. Data collected over a year showed that, despite occasional peaks, pollution levels remained within European limits, contributing to the creation of technical knowledge about the impact of port activity.
Renewable Energy and Innovation
The Port of Lisbon’s commitment to clean energy is illustrated by the installation of the first WindCredible urban wind turbine in a national infrastructure, located in the VTS tower. This pilot project aims to be replicated in other parts of the port and the city, promoting energy self- sufficiency based on renewable sources.
In addition, photovoltaic solar panels have been installed on the APL building in Alcântara, and innovative projects such as Wavecom for water and energy monitoring and the SMART PORT LX intelligent system, in partnership with Nova IMS, for environmental and operational monitoring, reveal a clear commitment to digitalization and eco-efficiency.
Environmental ethics and open dialogue with entities such as the Lisbon City Council, Turismo de Portugal, TAP, and environmental associations are enhanced by the coordination of the Cruise Activity Sustainability Committee. The Port of Lisbon strengthens cooperation in international networks, integrating committees of organizations such as ESPO and Cruise Europe, while also fostering partnerships with startups and research centers.
Economic and Social Impact
The impact of port activity in Lisbon extends beyond the municipality, reflecting positively on the national economy. In 2024, 360 cruise ship calls were expected, representing around 750,000 passengers — figures that have grown consecutively. A study by Nova SBE indicates that each port call contributes an average of €2.29 million to GDP and creates 59 jobs, in addition to generating more than €900,000 in tax revenue. In 2023, the Lisbon cruise port accounted for 0.3% of national GDP, directly impacting €794 million.
Ports of Leixões, Madeira, and the Azores: Joint Efforts
The Port of Leixões is also committed to meeting European deadlines for strengthening the electrification of port operations. APDL (Administração dos Portos do Douro, Leixões e Viana do Castelo) is preparing to ensure greener operations by 2030 through initiatives such as the creation of infrastructure for electric ship charging, modernization of equipment, use of electric buses and eco-friendly tugboats, as well as the promotion of alternative fuels.
The commitment to renewable energies, such as harnessing the sun, wind, and waves, aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035, 15 years ahead of the deadline set by the Paris Agreement. Digitization and air quality monitoring are priorities, strengthening APDL’s social and environmental commitment.
Although not included in the first phase of the European plan, the port of Madeira is developing the Green Ports project, co-financed by the European Union, which includes technical and financial feasibility studies to implement OPS (Onshore Power Supply) in the ports of Funchal, Caniçal, and Porto Santo. It also participates in international projects such as SHIFT2DC, involving 30 entities from 12 countries and a budget of €11 million.
In the Azores, although costs and geographical dispersion are constraints, an economic feasibility study is underway for the installation of OPS, especially for inter-island traffic on the islands of Faial, Pico, and São Jorge. Decisions will have to comply with European and national environmental regulations.
Maritime Industry: Challenges and Progress
The cruise industry has been investing in more environmentally friendly ships; currently, 52% of vessels are already capable of connecting to OPS, and expects this figure to rise to 72% by 2028. However, only 3% of European ports currently have electrical power sources installed, highlighting the challenge facing the port industry.
The full installation of the electricity supply system at the Lisbon cruise terminal will enable an estimated 77% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to the base year of 2019. The terminal will have the capacity to supply power to three ships simultaneously and is designed for future expansion. This is a strategic investment that leverages the environmental, reputational, and operational positioning of the Port of Lisbon vis-à-vis other Iberian ports.
In conclusion…
Portugal is establishing itself as a leader in the sustainable transformation of its ports, facing the challenges of the energy transition with pragmatism and innovation. Massive investment in electrical infrastructure, environmental monitoring, renewable energies, and eco-efficient practices is reflected in concrete data and results recognized at the European level.
Portugal is establishing itself as a leader in the sustainable transformation of its ports, facing the challenges of the energy transition with pragmatism and innovation. Massive investment in electrical infrastructure, environmental monitoring, renewable energies, and eco-efficient practices is reflected in concrete data and results recognized at the European level.
This article was prepared from real sources, gathered from news reports, official communications from the Lisbon Port Authority, APDL, and APRAM, as well as sector studies published between 2023 and 2025.
