In a significant move towards sustainable infrastructure, DP World has secured a senior loan of up to EUR 50 million from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to finance the electrification of the Constanta South Container Terminal (CSCT) in Romania. This marks the first electrification project of port infrastructure in the country.
The total project cost is estimated at EUR 200 million, which will be co-financed alongside the EU under its Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Facility Programme (AFIF). The EBRD will act as the Implementing Partner, with additional funding possibly coming from other EU sources.
The project involves comprehensive electrification efforts, including the installation of new electrical networks, transformer points, electric vehicles, charging stations, and new railway lines. These improvements aim to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of CSCT operations and enhance energy efficiency at the port terminal.
The primary goal is to decrease greenhouse gas emissions and optimize energy use at CSCT, contributing to climate change mitigation. The electrification of the terminal is expected to result in substantial energy savings and reduced operational costs.
The project has achieved an ETI score of 63, with its impact driven by “Green” and “Competitive” qualities. Over 60% of the EBRD’s proceeds will support the green economy transition (GET), qualifying the project as a significant contributor to green finance. Additionally, the project aligns with DP World’s investment commitments, enhancing the competitive edge of Constanta port.
Established in 2003, CSCT is a fully owned subsidiary of DP World, one of the largest marine terminal operators globally. CSCT operates a 1.5 million TEU capacity terminal at the Black Sea, benefiting from state-of-the-art infrastructure, deep-water access, and multimodal connectivity by sea, road, and rail.
The EBRD’s involvement is crucial in attracting further institutional investment, offering expertise in large infrastructure projects and providing financing terms not commonly available in the market.
Categorized as B under the 2019 Environmental and Social Policy (ESP), the project will be conducted within the existing operational port terminal. Key environmental and social risks include decommissioning old electrical infrastructure, waste management, noise and air emissions, and ensuring occupational health and safety. An independent consultant is conducting environmental and social due diligence, with comprehensive plans for stakeholder engagement and contractor management being prepared.
The electrification of Constanta Port sets a new benchmark for sustainable port operations in Romania, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and promote renewable energy solutions in the maritime industry.
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