The Gothenburg Port Authority has begun development of a new digital port call system, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions while saving time for vessels calling at the port.
The ‘Digital Port Call’ tool, expected to be in use in early 2024, will allow all parties involved in a ship’s arrival, from the onboard captain to the harbour crew, to collaboratively plan their operations and maximise efficiency.
“Today, there are numerous contacts that need to be made for a ship to arrive at berth, to load and unload, and then depart. This consumes time and creates uncertainty,” said Fredrik Rauer, Manager of Port Control at the Port of Gothenburg.
“Digital Port Call consolidates all communication points into a smooth and efficient chain where predictability for the entire ship call process becomes evident. This is a digital tool that many of us have been waiting for.”
“It encompasses everything from booking pilots and tugs, ensuring cranes are in the right position for the vessel, having the port crew ready to receive ropes, knowing the prevailing wind strength, to identifying the vessels in port. Essentially, it ensures that the right information is available at the right time for effective planning of a smooth arrival.”
Digital Port Call is being developed under an extended collaboration agreement between the Gothenburg Port Authority and the Finnish company Awake.AI. In 2021, the parties launched a new digital Berth Planner tool, Allberth.
The system being developed will provide Captains with an overview of the route to the Port of Gothenburg up to 36 hours before departure. Through a digital port call arrival declaration, the captain can adjust the speed into the port to minimise emissions and avoid anchoring and waiting for an assigned berth.
“Upon arrival at the berth, everything is synchronised and prepared for the best possible service since all service providers have a consolidated understanding of what needs to be done and are prepared, thanks to receiving the right information at the right time,” adds Mr Rauer.
“Furthermore, Digital Port Call saves shipping companies days at sea. And if there’s anything that costs a lot of money, it is unnecessary day spent at sea. Moreover, shipping companies are truly aligned now with the goal of having the most environmentally friendly propulsion possible, where the Digital Port Call not only saves money but also advances climate efforts.”
The system is part of a wide Green Connection initiative that Port of Gothenburg is implementing to reduce port-related CO2 emissions by 70% by 2030. This involves ensuring storage and access to a mix of alternative fuels, as well as investments in physical and digital infrastructure that support a fossil-free logistics chain. €60 million has been earmarked for projects related to CO2 reduction at the port.
