Port of Riga Leads Renewable Energy Efforts

The Port of Riga will soon host the first large-scale renewable fuels plant in the Baltic region. This ambitious project, developed in collaboration with Ukrainian investors, will focus on producing hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

These advanced biofuels, essential for achieving climate neutrality, are highly sought after in Latvia and across Europe.

Latvia’s renewable energy sector will benefit significantly from the facility’s operations. The initiative promises to boost the country’s export capacity and enhance energy independence. This development comes at a crucial time as Latvia strives to reduce its reliance on imported fuel and promote green initiatives.

Key Government Support for the Port of Riga

Kaspars Melnis, Latvia’s Minister for Climate and Energy, recently toured the planned site for the new plant in Kundziņsala. The facility is being developed by SIA PARS TERMINALS and represents a transformative step for Latvia’s renewable energy sector. During his visit, Melnis discussed other green energy projects already underway at the port.

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The minister highlighted the project’s long-term benefits, emphasizing its potential to increase Latvia’s role as a sustainable energy leader. He noted that the plant would create 120 skilled jobs, support local farmers by ensuring demand for energy-intensive crops, and strengthen Latvia’s energy independence. Additionally, the facility will align with Latvia’s climate neutrality objectives.

Renewable Energy Innovation at the Port of Riga

This renewable fuels plant is the first of its kind in the Baltic region, marking a significant milestone for green energy in Europe. The facility will process approximately 236,000 tons of feedstock annually, generating 93,000 tons of HVO and 87,000 tons of SAF. With an estimated cost of €120 million, the plant is expected to be operational within 20 months.

Innovative technologies will be utilized to convert natural vegetable oils into environmentally friendly fuel alternatives. These high-value products will replace imported fuels and enhance the region’s energy security. Ukrainian investors’ involvement underscores the project’s strategic importance for both Latvia and the Baltic region.

Vision for Economic Modernization

Armands Sadauskis, owner of SIA PARS TERMINALS, praised the partnership with Ukrainian investors. He highlighted how the plant represents a modernization of Latvia’s energy infrastructure and logistical systems. This development will support the aviation sector, particularly AirBaltic, which aims to increase its use of renewable fuels to meet 2030 targets.

Sadauskis also stressed the economic and environmental advantages of shortening logistics chains and producing high-value-added products domestically. These efforts will not only reduce dependency on foreign fuel supplies but also position Latvia as a leader in sustainable energy innovation.

Additional Green Initiatives at Riga Port

In addition to the renewable fuels plant, several other green projects are planned at the Port of Riga. A wind turbine component production and logistics hub is being developed in Kundziņsala. Additionally, a solar panel park in Spilve Meadows is set to become one of the largest in the Baltic region, capable of generating approximately 100,000 MWh of green electricity annually.

The Port of Riga is also advancing hydrogen research through the “BalticSeaH2 – Baltic-Nordic Hydrogen Valley” initiative. Other projects include modernizing the port’s technical fleet and exploring shore power connections for ships. These efforts aim to align with Latvia’s broader climate goals.

Strategic Impact for Latvia and Beyond

The renewable fuels plant and associated green initiatives signal a transformative era for Latvia’s energy sector. By investing in sustainable energy technologies and fostering international partnerships, the Port of Riga is setting an example for the Baltic region. The projects will enhance Latvia’s economic resilience, reduce carbon emissions, and support the global transition to clean energy.

Source: www.worldcargonews.com

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