Ports accelerate measures to reduce emissions and expand the use of clean energy

Since 2024, clean energy generated at the Itatinga Power Plant has reduced diesel consumption and CO2 emissions (Vanessa Rodrigues/AT/Archive)

Responsible for handling most of global trade (and more than 95% of Brazil’s foreign trade), maritime transportation also faces the challenge of reducing its environmental impact, as it accounts for approximately 3% of global energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. If the current scenario continues, the sector’s emissions are expected to reach between 90% and 130% of 2008 levels by 2030.

Among the measures adopted at Brazilian ports are the electrification of equipment, the supply of onshore electrical power to berthed vessels (systems known as Onshore Power Supply, or OPS), emissions monitoring, as well as investments in low-carbon fuels and green hydrogen.

The Port of Santos, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, is among the ports implementing such initiatives. The port complex has deployed an OPS system to provide electrical power to berthed tugboats. As a result, since 2024, clean energy generated by the Itatinga Hydroelectric Power Plant, located in Bertioga, has reduced diesel consumption and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.

Other examples

In Paranaguá (PR), investments in railway logistics and solar power generation are strengthening operational efficiency and sustainability.

The Moegão project, currently in its final phase, will expand rail cargo handling capacity, while photovoltaic systems installed at terminals have contributed to emissions reductions since 2023.

Meanwhile, the Port of Suape (PE) will become the first 100% electrified container terminal in Latin America, featuring electrically powered equipment, operational automation, and integrated digital infrastructure. The facility is expected to begin operations by the end of the year.

In Ceará, the Pecém Complex is advancing the consolidation of a green hydrogen hub, supported by the region’s strong renewable energy generation capacity. The complex is also developing projects focused on green ammonia production and the expansion of port infrastructure to support the new energy supply chain from 2030 onward.

The Port of Açu, in Rio de Janeiro, is investing in the creation of a green corridor for the supply of low-carbon fuels and in the development of projects related to hydrogen and the decarbonization of the steel industry, also beginning in 2030.