Spain's Multiregional Operational Programme (POPE)
The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) of the Spanish Multi-regional Operational Programme (POPE) is a key tool to promote the sustainability and connectivity of Spanish ports to boost their competitiveness and development.
Adaptation of the LV network in Pasaia Port
The project for the Adaptation of the Low-Voltage (LV) Network in Pasaia Port has been awarded €768,000 in funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF 4). The project is part of Spain’s POPE ERDF 2021-2027.
The work started in April 2025 and is scheduled for completion in autumn 2025. The aim is to adapt the port’s low-voltage network to supply the power demand of new bulk carriers, which will be able to connect to the Onshore Power Supply charging stations.
This technology, also known as cold ironing, enables docked ships to be connected to the port’s electrical grid during their stay, and this reduces pollutant and noise emissions.
Specific objective 2
The project is set within the specific policy objective 2 of the POPE ERDF 2021-2027, which seeks to foster a greener, low-carbon transitioning towards a net zero carbon economy and resilient Europe by promoting clean and fair energy transition, green and blue investment, the circular economy, climate change mitigation and adaptation, risk prevention and management, and sustainable urban mobility.
This project falls under the specific objective RSO2.2. (GR + OPS): Promoting renewable energy in accordance with Directive (EU) 2018/2001, including the sustainability criteria set out therein.
This specific objective includes actions to increase the use of renewable energy in port buildings and facilities, including the adaptation and improvement of electrical grids to cater for possible surpluses of renewable energy. It also includes actions to increase capacity and develop new infrastructure to supply electricity to ships in ports, so they can disconnect their auxiliary engines when they are docked.
