The BE:TWIN project – To BE scenarios for port management leveraging Digital TWIN – is funded by the Interreg VI-A Greece–Italy Programme 2021–2027, under the Priority Axis “Smart and Innovation” and in particular Objective SO1.2 – Digitalisation, which aims to promote digital innovation and technological transformation in cross-border areas.

The Port of Taranto, together with the other partners – the Port of Patras, MEDISDIH, and CTI Diophantus –is at the forefront of a digital transformation process aimed at improving competitiveness, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability, while strengthening institutional and technological cooperation between Italy and Greece.

The project introduces a new paradigm in port management through the adoption of Digital Twin technology, a dynamic digital replica of port infrastructure and processes capable of integrating real data, simulations, and predictive tools to analyse scenarios, optimize operations, and support strategic decision-making.

Through the combined use of the Internet of Things (IoT), predictive analytics, dynamic simulation, and smart energy management, BE:TWIN promotes an innovative and replicable model of a digital and sustainable port, aligned with European objectives for the twin green and digital transition.

Main project activities include:

• The design of a virtual replica of port operations with dynamic simulation capabilities;
• The implementation of predictive analytics tools and Proofs of Concept to test innovative technological solutions;
• The design of an energy management system based on IoT technologies, aimed at optimizing the use of resources and renewable energy;
• The development of cross-border training modules to enhance the digital and technical skills of port professionals.

Key expected results:

• The development of a Digital Twin platform for real-time monitoring and simulation of port activities;
• The design of an intelligent energy management system to reduce consumption and emissions;
• A cross-border data-sharing protocol between Italian and Greek ports;
• A capacity-building program to strengthen digital culture and innovation in the port sector;
• The implementation of a pilot to validate selected processes developed within the project.

With BE:TWIN, the Port of Taranto strengthens its role as an innovation hub in the Mediterranean, promoting a data-driven, technology-based, and sustainable approach to port management. The project will enhance decision-making capacity, reduce carbon footprint, and foster international cooperation, laying the foundations for a replicable model of smart and green port development, fully aligned with European Smart Innovation and Digitalisation strategies.

The total project budget is €2,011,567.50. The budget of the Port Network Authority of Ionian Sea is €766,785.00.

The project is scheduled to conclude on 28 May 2027