Port of Taranto, The Management Committee of the Ionian Sea Port System Authority has unanimously approved Vestas Blades Italia S.r.l.’s application for a nine-year maritime state property concession. The decision marks a major milestone for both Vestas and the Port of Taranto, granting access to the strategically significant “Piattaforma Logistica” to bolster the company’s production and logistics operations.
Vestas, a global leader in wind energy solutions, aims to utilize the platform to support the production of its groundbreaking V236 turbine blades. Measuring 115.5 meters, these are the largest wind turbine blades in the world, designed for their 15 MW offshore wind turbines. The concession integrates the logistical needs of Vestas with the port’s strategic resources, including a rail terminal directly linking the site to the manufacturing plant and a streamlined system for importing raw materials.
This move isn’t just about logistics—it’s a step toward sustainability. By reducing reliance on road transport, the operation will significantly cut carbon emissions, aligning with broader regional and global environmental goals.
According to the Management Committee’s review, Vestas’ proposal stood out for its alignment with the Port Authority’s strategic objectives. The initiative emphasizes the port’s role as a hub for assembling and deploying offshore wind energy components. The comprehensive plan presented by Vestas also underscores environmental, social, and economic sustainability, including significant local investments and employment opportunities.
Sergio Prete, President of the Ionian Sea Port System Authority, remarked on the transformative potential of this partnership: “With this concession, Vestas will expand its production capacity while cementing the Port of Taranto’s position as a vital logistics and export hub for wind energy systems. This step not only enhances maritime and intermodal transport but also reinforces a sustainable logistics chain that benefits the regional economy and employment.”
The decision has drawn praise from regional leaders. Michele Emiliano, President of the Puglia Region, highlighted the concession as a cornerstone of sustainable logistics and a key component of the Mediterranean-Scandinavian transport corridor within the Trans-European Network-Transport (TEN-T). He emphasized the initiative’s contribution to Puglia’s ecological transition, with far-reaching economic and employment prospects.
Rinaldo Melucci, Mayor of Taranto and President of the Province, echoed similar sentiments: “This decision strengthens the Port of Taranto’s role as a beacon of innovation and sustainability in the energy sector. By reducing road transport emissions and integrating rail connectivity, the project exemplifies the synergy between economic development and environmental responsibility.”
Commander Rosario Meo of the Port Authority added that the concession underscores the port’s green transformation. He attributed its progress to close cooperation among maritime authorities, stakeholders, and institutional partners, which has enhanced the port’s competitive edge.
