Valenciaport in Spain has announced the development of its own 5G network to connect more than 25,000 devices and establish itself as a “Smart Port”.
The 5G network at Valenciaport will operate on n40 frequencies, ensuring network privacy and customised security within the port area.
Over 15 n40 base stations will be deployed, providing comprehensive coverage of the Port Authority’s operational areas.
The project, with a budget of nearly €6m ($6.18m), is co-financed by the European Union’s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF).
Port Authority of Valencia (PAV) director Enrique Belda said: “5G will allow us to configure the technological future of the Port of València, a future that will provide advanced connectivity for the improvement of innovation and the definitive digital transformation.”
The 5G network will incorporate advanced technologies and a private 5G network core in Stand-Alone (SA) mode, including the core network, Radio Access Network (RAN), and routing/switching elements.
The private 5G SA solution will allow Valenciaport to independently control all infrastructure-related decisions.
It will support a maximum throughput of 10Gbps and at least 25,000 connected devices with a geo-redundant core network and high availability cybersecurity system.
Deployment on a single n40 frequency band (2.3-2.4GHz) will allow for bandwidth expansion, and initial testing will focus on ‘police surveillance’ and ‘remote maintenance’ use cases.
The police surveillance system will be enhanced with cameras in police vehicles and equipment, aiming to improve port security.
Technician training will include immersive telepresence systems and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure.
Valenciaport Foundation innovation projects senior manager Joan Meseguer Llopis said: “This is a pioneering project in Europe, coordinated by the Valenciaport Foundation, which is distinguished by the combination of three key features: the size of the port, the comprehensive implementation of 5G technology and the exclusive use of the radio spectrum available under the self-provisioning model.”
The 5G network will facilitate advanced services such as 5G coverage for passengers, digital twinning, intelligent surveillance, and stowage planning.
The network’s performance is expected to improve user experience and adaptability, with the Port of València expected to become a future-proof site by 2027.
In 2023, the Port of Valencia carried out hydrogen loading tests at its Hydrogen Generator refuelling station, situated on the Xita quay.