Canary Islands‘ OPCSA Pioneers Smart Port Conversion with Boldyn Networks’ Private 5G Deployment
Las Palmas, Canary Islands – Operaciones Portuarias Canarias (OPCSA), the largest container terminal in the Canary Islands and a vital link in global shipping routes, is embarking on a groundbreaking digital transformation powered by a new private 5G network. The project, a collaboration with leading neutral host provider boldyn Networks and technology innovator Nokia, will revolutionize port operations, enhance efficiency, and position OPCSA as a leader in digital logistics within the TiL global network.
This strategic initiative addresses the growing demands of a modern logistics hub handling high volumes of cargo connecting over 74 ports across Europe, Africa, and South America.OPCSA recognizes that maintaining a competitive edge requires embracing cutting-edge infrastructure, and private 5G is the cornerstone of this vision.
Addressing Key Challenges with a Dedicated 5G Network
Traditionally, maintaining and monitoring critical port infrastructure – like refrigerated containers, Rubber Tired Gantry (RTG) cranes, and Ship-too-Shore (STS) cranes – has presented significant challenges.These include high maintenance costs stemming from inefficiencies, reliance on costly and complex fiber optic cabling, and limitations in real-time data access. OPCSA’s private 5G network, built on Nokia’s Digital Automation Cloud (DAC) platform, directly tackles these issues.
“This partnership with Boldyn Networks represents a transformative leap for our terminal,” states Jan Nowak, CEO of OPCSA. “The deployment of private 5G will not only streamline operations, but also position OPCSA as a leader in port innovation across the region. as the project evolves, OPCSA is well placed to become a digitisation leader within TiL by pioneering private 5G to drive innovation and efficiency across terminal operations.”
How the Private 5G Network Will Deliver Tangible Benefits:
the initial phase of the deployment focuses on three key areas,demonstrating the immediate impact of this technology:
* enhanced Maintenance & Monitoring: Equipping operators with tablets connected to the private 5G network will provide reliable connectivity for efficient maintenance and monitoring of refrigerated containers,reducing associated costs and improving responsiveness.
* Digitizing RTG Cranes: The network will enable the digitization of RTG cranes,currently relying on onboard PCs located 20 meters high. Secure, real-time data transmission via Nokia Industrial field routers will pave the way for remote crane operation – a significant step towards automation.
* Real-Time STS Crane Monitoring: The high-capacity 5G network will facilitate real-time monitoring of telemetry data from STS cranes (standing over 100 meters tall), minimizing unexpected downtime and preventing costly operational disruptions. This eliminates the need for extensive and expensive civil works and fiber optic connections.
Boldyn networks’ ‘Private 5G as a Service’ – A Streamlined Approach
OPCSA has opted for Boldyn networks’ “Private 5G as a Service” model,a fully managed solution that removes the complexities of infrastructure management. This approach offers several advantages:
* Rapid Deployment: Faster time-to-market compared to traditional network builds.
* Predictable Costs: A clear and manageable operational expenditure (OpEx) model.
* scalability & security: A secure and scalable network designed to adapt to future growth and evolving needs.
* Ongoing Support: Dedicated support from Boldyn Networks’ experienced team.
“We have ample experience in enhancing port environments with reliable connectivity solutions tailored to the demands of high-volume logistics, real-time data exchange and complex operational workflows,” explains Mikko Uusitalo, CEO for Europe at Boldyn Networks. “This expertise makes us exceptionally well-equipped to deliver a transformative private 5G network for OPCSA. We’re excited to bring our capabilities to such a strategically crucial terminal and support its journey towards becoming a fully digitised, smart port.”
Nokia’s Technology – The Foundation for a Resilient Network
The selection of nokia’s DAC platform underscores OPCSA’s commitment to a robust and future-proof solution.
“Ports are becoming increasingly digital, connected and automated, and reliable private wireless is the foundation that makes this transformation possible,” says Michael Aspinall, Head of Enterprise Campus Edge Sales for Europe at Nokia. “We are proud that OPCSA and Boldyn Networks have chosen Nokia’s industry-leading private 5G technology to enable new levels of efficiency, safety and innovation at the Port of Las Palmas.”
Looking Ahead: A Vision for a Fully Digitized Smart Port
This initial deployment is just the beginning. OPCSA and Boldyn Networks will continuously assess network performance and explore opportunities for