“We welcome with satisfaction the Decree of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport which, following the green light received from the European Commission, provides for a reduction in general system charges on the electricity used by ships while berthed in port. This is a fundamental step to ensure that shore-side electrification can be effectively used to supply power to vessels at berth, without resulting in additional costs for shipowners.

During the drafting phase of the Decree, Assarmatori provided the MIT with its contribution in terms of expertise, experience and widespread representation across ports, with the aim of making maritime transport increasingly sustainable. Most of the fleet is already ready to ‘plug in’: some steps are still pending, such as the completion of infrastructure and the subsequent tendering process, but today the goal is undoubtedly closer.

At the same time, the issue remains open for those vessels which, despite being equipped to draw power from shore, are still required to pay ETS costs, as the grid is not yet operational.”

This was stated by the President of Assarmatori, Stefano Messina, in a note.