Hybrid renewable energy systems (HRESs) are being incorporated and evaluated within seaports to realize efficiencies, reduce dependence on grid electricity, and reduce operating costs. The paper adopts a genetic algorithm (GA)-based optimization framework to assess four energy management scenarios that embed wind turbines (WTs), photovoltaic energy (PV), an energy storage system (ESS), and an energy management system (EMS). The scenarios were developed based on different levels of renewable energy integration, energy storage utilization, and grid dependency to optimize cost and sustainability while reflecting the actual port energy scenario as the base case. Integrating HRES, ESS, and EMS reduced the port’s levelized cost of energy (LCOE) by up to 54%, with the most optimized system (Scenario 3) achieving a 53% reduction while enhancing energy stability, minimizing grid reliance, and maximizing renewable energy utilization. The findings show that the HRES configuration provides better cost, sustainability, and resiliency than the conventional grid-tied system. The unique proposed EMS takes it a step further, optimizing not just the energy flow but also the cost, making the overall system more efficient—and less costly—for the user. ESS complements energy storage and keeps it functional and reliable while EMS makes it completely functional by devising ways to reduce costs and enhance efficiency. The study presents the technical and economic viability of HRES as an economic and operational smart port infrastructure through its cost-effective integration of renewable energy sources. The results reinforce the move from conventional to sustainable autonomous port energy systems and lay the groundwork for forthcoming studies of DR-enhanced port energy management schemes. While prior studies have explored renewable energy integration within ports, many lack a unified, empirically validated framework that considers HRES, ESS, and EMS within real-world port operations. This research addresses this gap by developing an optimization-driven approach that assesses the techno-economic feasibility of port energy systems while incorporating real-time data and advanced control strategies. This study was conducted to enhance port infrastructure and evaluate the impact of HRES, ESS, and EMS on port sustainability and autonomy. By bridging the gap between theoretical modeling and practical implementation, it offers a scalable and adaptable solution for improving cost efficiency and energy resilience in port operations.

Ports are vital nodes in global trade networks but are also significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Their transition toward sustainable, nearly zero-energy operations require comprehensive and structured strategies. This study proposes a practical and scalable framework to support the energy decarbonization of ports through the phased integration of hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) and energy storage systems (ESS). Emphasizing a systems-level approach, the framework addresses key aspects such as energy demand assessment, resource potential evaluation, HRES configuration, and ESS sizing, while incorporating load characterization protocols and decision-making thresholds for technology deployment. Special consideration is given to economic performance, particularly the minimization of the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), alongside efforts to meet energy autonomy and operational resilience targets. In parallel, the framework integrates digital tools, including smart grid infrastructure and digital shadow technologies, to enable real-time system monitoring, simulation, and long-term optimization. It also embeds mechanisms for regulatory compliance and continuous adaptation to evolving standards. To validate its applicability, the framework is demonstrated using a representative case study based on a generic port profile. The example illustrates the transition process from conventional energy models to a sustainable port ecosystem, confirming the framework’s potential as a decision-making tool for port authorities, engineers, and policymakers aiming to achieve effective, compliant, and future-proof energy transitions in maritime infrastructure.