Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 8, The Port Authority of Valencia (APV) has awarded Orange Spain a €6.9 million ($7.9 million) contract to design and implement Valenciaport’s private 5G network. This initiative aims to provide advanced, secure, and efficient communication solutions to support the increasing operational complexity of Valencia’s port facilities.

The project, co-financed by the European Union through the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) programme, will give the APV a secure and flexible telecommunications infrastructure. The deployment will begin at the Port of Valencia and is expected to be completed and operational within 36 months. Once in place, the network will allow the port authority to manage its communications independently, reducing reliance on traditional telecommunications operators.

Orange’s proposal addresses the port’s role as a key node in the Mediterranean corridor of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), which handles container terminals, bulk cargo, and maritime transport operations. The new private 5G network will enhance the port’s capacity to manage large-scale logistics activities by supporting independent connectivity for more than 25,000 devices, including vehicles, sensors, drones, and security cameras.

By eliminating dependence on extensive cabling, the network will facilitate the use of drones and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors for inspections and monitoring. This digital transformation is expected to improve operational efficiency, optimise resource use, and support the port’s environmental sustainability goals by reducing emissions and energy consumption.

The infrastructure will feature advanced cybersecurity measures, including a dual-layer firewall and network segmentation, to ensure the protection of sensitive data and critical communications. These measures will strengthen system resilience and safeguard operations against potential cyber risks.

The new 5G platform will also enable real-time data exchange for high-resolution surveillance cameras, AI-powered drones, and communications for port police. This will enhance situational awareness, allow faster response to incidents, and improve overall safety and security within port premises.

In addition, the project includes the introduction of augmented reality (AR) tools for remote maintenance and workforce training. Through AR technology, technicians will be able to receive real-time guidance and perform maintenance more efficiently, while operators will benefit from enhanced interactive learning environments.

The APV highlighted that this digitalisation initiative forms part of its broader strategy to modernise port operations and reinforce its position as a sustainable and technologically advanced logistics hub in southern Europe.

Last month, the Port Authority of Valencia renewed its Port Environmental Review System (PERS) certification from the European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO), reaffirming its commitment to environmental protection and sustainable port management. The combination of green initiatives and digital innovation places Valenciaport among the leading European ports pursuing intelligent, low-emission operations.