Acciona, the Spanish infrastructure and energy giant, has partnered with Italy’s RMC to undertake the construction of a critical breakwater for an upcoming liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal off the port of Ravenna, Italy. The contract, valued at 216 million euros (approximately $230 million), is a significant step in enhancing Italy’s energy infrastructure and ensuring the stability of its LNG supply chain.
The terminal, slated to begin operations by the first quarter of 2025, will be managed by Snam, Italy’s national gas grid operator. Once completed, the terminal will serve as a crucial point of entry for LNG imports, which now account for around 25% of Italy’s annual natural gas consumption. The development is part of Italy’s broader strategy to diversify its energy sources and reduce dependency on traditional pipeline gas imports, particularly in the wake of geopolitical uncertainties.
The breakwater construction will involve the creation of a vertical concrete quay, measuring 880 meters in length and 22 meters in width. Situated 8.5 kilometres off the coast of Punta Marina, south of the Ravenna port in the northern Adriatic Sea, this infrastructure is vital to protect the terminal from harsh marine conditions and ensure the safe offloading of LNG vessels. The project is set to be completed within a 24-month period, with the funds fully covered by Italy’s state lender, Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP), which is backing the project through the North Central Adriatic Sea Port Authority.
Acciona, which has long been involved in Italy’s major infrastructure sector, is also engaged in providing water treatment services to over two million people across the country. The company has previously completed large-scale projects such as the Bologna-Milan high-speed rail link and the expansion of Rome’s Fiumicino airport. This LNG terminal project further solidifies Acciona’s role in Italy’s growing focus on sustainable energy and infrastructure.
For the people of Italy, this development has a deeper significance. As the country seeks to bolster its energy security, the successful completion of this LNG terminal will help ensure a more reliable and diversified energy supply. With Italy’s growing dependence on LNG, the project carries the potential to reduce future energy costs and offer greater security to industries and households alike.
However, the environmental impact of such infrastructure projects remains a crucial consideration. The construction of the breakwater and the terminal involves a considerable carbon footprint, raising questions about the long-term sustainability of large-scale energy projects. With climate change concerns at the forefront, critics argue that while LNG provides a cleaner alternative to coal and oil, its environmental footprint—especially related to the emissions from LNG shipping—still needs to be addressed in the context of Italy’s ambitious green transition.
Moreover, the economic implications of such projects extend beyond energy security. The 216 million euro investment in the breakwater is expected to generate local employment, further boosting the Adriatic region’s economy during construction. For many workers involved, this project represents an opportunity for growth in a region that has long struggled with economic disparities.
