The transformation of Cypriot ports into smart and sustainable energy hubs, through joint planning for shipping, energy and the environment, was set as a priority by the President of the Cyprus Shipping Agents Association, Riginos Tsanos, at the Italy-Cyprus Maritime Business Forum in Limassol.
Speaking to the panel on sustainable ports and their connection to cities, he pointed out that the three sectors are closely intertwined, but often operate with different priorities, independent decisions and different speeds. Their coordination, he underlined, is a prerequisite for investments that combine commercial viability, energy sufficiency and environmental protection.
The forum took place on Friday, October 9, 2026, at the DP World Cruise Terminal. It was organized by the Embassy of Italy in Cyprus, in collaboration with business and shipping bodies, under the auspices of the Shipping Deputy Ministry. The aim was to strengthen cooperation between Cyprus and Italy in shipping, port infrastructure, investments and green technologies.
Five areas of cooperation for ports
Mr. Tsanos presented five areas in which cooperation can yield practical results:
- The transformation of ports into smart energy hubs.
- The coordination of regulatory frameworks.
- The integrated approach to investments in the blue economy.
- The creation of a common maritime digital platform.
- The design of multi-purpose marine zones.
Particular emphasis was placed on the electricity supply of ships from land and the reduction of the environmental footprint of port operations. The adequacy of electricity grids, he said, is a critical challenge and requires coordinated efforts by the State, municipal authorities, the shipping industry and energy and environmental agencies.
As he noted, the benefits must also reach neighbouring cities, with cleaner air, less noise and a better quality of life.
Digital platform and joint investment assessment
The combined assessment of marine, energy and environmental projects can, according to the president of the Association, enhance the sustainability of investments and risk diversification.
At the same time, a common marine digital platform could support planning, accelerate decision-making and improve environmental monitoring. Coordinated maritime spatial planning would also facilitate the coexistence of energy projects and maritime activities.
Prioritizing fleet efficiency
Referring to the energy transition of shipping, Mr. Tsanos underlined that rapid technological development, combined with the long lifespan of ships, requires careful investment decisions.
It has set as a priority the improvement of the efficiency of the existing fleet, through better voyage planning, hull and propeller maintenance, optimization of engine operation and utilization of operational data by properly trained personnel.
For new shipbuilding, he stressed the importance of flexibility. In this context, it highlighted the need to consider dual fuel solutions, anticipate future conversions and assess the availability of fuel and refuelling infrastructure on ship routes.
The opportunities in Vasilikos and Larnaca
The planned investments in Vasilikos and the upgrade of Larnaca's port infrastructure create opportunities for Cyprus, according to Mr. Tsanos.
As he mentioned, Italian know-how in marine technology and the digitalization of ports can contribute to this effort, while utilizing international examples from Norway and Singapore.
In conclusion, he underlined that the successful connection of port and city requires joint planning of infrastructure, energy networks and transport connections. Cooperation, he stressed, must be transformed into a concrete project, with clear responsibilities, coordinated actions and timetables, addressing shipping, energy and the environment as a whole.
