ENETRA – Development of an energy transformation assistant for sustainable inland ports

In this project, researchers at the Reiner Lemoine Institute are investigating how inland ports such as BEHALA Westhafen in Berlin can manage the transition to a sustainable energy system with 100 % renewable energy. To this end, they are developing the energy transformation assistant, a web-based tool for analysing and planning modern energy concepts for inland ports.

Sustainable energy for inland ports

Inland ports are facing major challenges: They need to analyse their energy requirements and potential for energy generation, use space and buildings efficiently and invest in new energy concepts. researchers at RLI are developing solutions that make these tasks easier and more economical. Part of this solution is the web-based tool, the energy transformation assistant. The tool is designed to support port operators in their decision-making process for new energy concepts by providing recommendations for action.

Energy transformation assistant: an innovative tool

The team is designing the energy transformation assistant as a user-friendly online tool that helps port operators to master the complex requirements of sector-coupled energy concepts. The tool takes various variables into account, such as current and future energy consumption and energy generation options, different energy sectors, for example PV potential, and land utilisation options on the port site.
Using BEHALA Westhafen as an example, the RLI researchers are testing and improving the tool in close collaboration with all relevant stakeholders.

Working together towards the energy transition

The scientists are working directly with stakeholders to understand the requirements and challenges on site. The project with BEHALA Westhafen serves as a model project. The results of the project and the tool should also be transferable to other German inland ports.

Project duration: January 2025 – June 2027

• Analysing the energy requirements and generation potential in inland ports
• Development of a web-based energy transformation assistant for planning modern energy concepts
• Involvement of stakeholders and testing the tool at the port BEHALA Westhafen
• Support of the port operators in investment decisions for sustainable energy projects