The Port of Valencia has launched an innovative pilot programme featuring walkable solar panels integrated directly into pedestrian pathways.
Led by Fundación Valenciaport as part of the European RENEWPORT initiative, the project aims to expedite the energy transition of Mediterranean ports, demonstrating how green energy solutions can be embedded seamlessly into port infrastructure.
This pilot has introduced 26 robust photovoltaic panels, each measuring one square metre and just 34 millimetres thick, to the main entrance walkway of the Port Authority of Valencia’s principal car park.
These panels collectively cover roughly 30 square metres and provide a combined installed capacity of 5.2 kWp.
“This type of sustainable innovative solutions are a reality of Valenciaport’s conviction to be catalysts of tractor initiatives that accelerate their implementation in different areas,” explained Federico Torres, head of Ecological Transition at the Port Authority of Valencia.
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Fully compliant with UNE anti-slip regulations, the panels are engineered to endure ongoing pedestrian movement, boasting a peak power rating of 200 W each, with a system voltage of 47 V and current of 5.8 A. All generated electricity is routed through a Huawei inverter rated at 10 kW, supplying power to adjacent buildings and mainly fuelling lighting and air conditioning systems.
The deployment builds on lessons from Valencia’s earlier solar pavement prototype, installed in 2021 with a smaller output and footprint. That original trial laid important groundwork, confirming the panels’ capability for clean electricity production even under exposure to port-specific weather conditions, like salt air and high traffic.
Ongoing analysis will examine both energy yields and maintenance performance, while a wider feasibility study will assess further roll-out potential, integration with the port’s existing grid, and associated cost and environmental benefits.
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The RENEWPORT project is co-funded by the European Commission through the Interreg EURO-MED programme, bringing together partners from various Mediterranean ports. The broader mission: empower harbour authorities to harness renewables, lower emissions, and advance climate action.
As part of this vision, Fundación Valenciaport rolled out the “Renewable Energy Toolkit” in July, a free online resource guiding Mediterranean ports in selecting optimal energy sources for current and future requirements.
For more information:
Fundación Valenciaport – https://www.fundacion.valenciaport.com/
