AIMPRESS (ADRION): Adriatic-Ionian Maritime Operational Efficiency and Sustainable Scheme
The AIMPRESS project, a cross-border initiative under the Interreg IPA ADRION program, is dedicated to improving environmental and energy performance across Adriatic-Ionian ports. With a total budget of €1,586,864.40, the project focuses on integrating Digital Shadow technology and an AI-based Energy Management System. Digital Shadow creates real-time virtual replicas of port operations, helping ports optimize logistics and manage resources more efficiently. The AI-driven Energy Management System promotes efficient energy use aligned with renewable energy sources, supporting the sustainability goals of Priority Axis 3 of the ADRION framework, which emphasizes carbon-neutral operations across the region.
Beyond technological implementation, AIMPRESS focuses on regional collaboration, creating a “Green Smart Ports Roadmap” to guide ports in adopting sustainable solutions. Through a strong emphasis on training and capacity building, AIMPRESS ensures that port personnel are equipped with the skills needed to manage and sustain these technological advancements effectively. This initiative is part of a broader objective to create a network of environmentally sustainable and operationally efficient ports across the Adriatic-Ionian region.
Role of the Port of Split Authority in AIMPRESS
As a key partner in the AIMPRESS project, the Port of Split Authority (PSA) is allocated a budget of €69,420 to support its initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability:
- Digitalization Initiatives: A portion of the budget goes toward acquiring hardware and software to support digital tracking and data management. Investments include RFID systems for advanced tracking, portable devices for on-the-go operational management, and comprehensive data management software to streamline workflows and improve logistics handling with less manual intervention.
- AI-Based Ports’ Energy Management System: PSA will implement an AI-powered system to optimize energy usage throughout port operations. This system uses predictive analytics to forecast energy demand and features real-time monitoring capabilities, enabling precise energy management aligned with the port’s sustainability goals. The budget also covers necessary hardware for data collection, allowing PSA to make data-driven energy decisions.
- Training and Development: To ensure successful implementation of these new technologies, PSA dedicates part of its budget to training materials and e-learning platforms. This training empowers staff to effectively operate new systems, ensuring that the port transitions smoothly to more advanced and sustainable operational practices.
- Engagement of External Expertise: The Port of Split Authority’s budget also supports consultations with specialists to enhance project outcomes. This includes:
- Cold-Ironing and Photovoltaic System Consulting: Expert consultations on the design and integration of cold-ironing and solar energy systems, focusing on regulatory compliance and environmental sustainability.
- Digitalization and AI Consulting: Guidance from digital transformation experts to ensure the effective adoption of intelligent energy management systems.
- Environmental Impact Assessments: Experts will conduct assessments to align project activities with environmental standards.
- Scalability and Replicability Studies: Specialists will help create frameworks for implementing similar initiatives in other ports.
- Training Program Development: External trainers will design specialized programs to upskill PSA’s workforce for these new technologies.
These initiatives underscore the Port of Split Authority’s commitment to leveraging technology and expertise to boost operational efficiency, optimize energy use, and support workforce development. This strategic approach ensures that PSA aligns with AIMPRESS’s goals of sustainability and technological advancement, while also contributing to the broader impact on Adriatic-Ionian ports.