Unveiling the Sensitivity Analysis of Port Carbon Footprint via Power Alternative Scenarios: A Deep Dive into the Valencia Port Case Study

Abstract

The Port of Valencia, a prominent maritime center, is actively working towards minimizing its carbon emissions and aims to become a completely carbon-neutral port soon. This research uses data-driven sensitivity analysis to explore realistic power-generating options for a seaport to reduce its emissions. This approach comprises changing key parameters in power consumption and deploying renewable energies (rather than electricity and infrastructure prices, which are beyond the scope of this study) to assess their impact on the port’s overall emissions profile. Through sensitivity analysis, policymakers and managers discover each scenario’s efficacy and find the best decarbonization strategies. After thoroughly examining four realistic scenarios, our research findings show that each scenario’s emission reduction share and sensitivity are practical and feasible. It becomes clear that gradually replacing traditional fossil fuels for electricity generation with renewables is a reasonable and realistic option for emissions reduction. The results demonstrate that focusing on reasonable targets, such as replacing 30% and 50% of electricity generation with renewables, is more achievable and beneficial in the medium term than ambitious goals, like replacing all electricity with renewable energy. This research contributes to reducing emissions of the Port of Valencia by using data-driven sensitivity analysis to find practical renewable energy strategies. It provides actionable insights for managers and policymakers to implement feasible decarbonization plans, emphasizing gradual adoption of renewables over ambitious goals, thus supporting sustainable maritime operations.