Rosslare Port Living Lab: Maritime Decarbonisation – Energy Transition & Smart Systems: Evaluating renewable integration, electrification, and efficiency in smart port operations – Construction Project Management focus

Ports are becoming central actors in the transition to low and zero emission shipping. As vessels electrify and alternative fuels emerge, ports are no longer just transport infrastructure — they are increasingly green energy hubs, connecting ships, electricity networks, logistics operations and surrounding communities (Arup, 2024).

At the same time, the global energy context is shifting rapidly. In a world shaped by energy price shocks and geopolitical instability, the transition to clean energy is no longer only an environmental objective. For the transition to succeed, people and communities need to see tangible benefits including good jobs, affordable energy, and visible local investment — alongside emissions reduction (European Commission, 2023). Infrastructure decisions must therefore deliver social and economic value as well as environmental outcomes.

Ports sit at the intersection of these pressures. The core challenge explored through the Living Lab is: How might Rosslare Europort transition towards electrification in a way that reduces emissions, strengthens energy resilience, and delivers meaningful environmental, social and economic co-benefits?

General learning outcomes

• Develop critical evaluation skills for sustainability practices.
• Understand and apply port decarbonisation strategies.
• Engage in co-creation with industry stakeholders during design sprint.
• Translate theoretical knowledge into practical solutions and recommendations.
• Evaluate energy transition strategies and propose innovations to support low-carbon, resilient port operations.