The paper explores the increasingly strategic role of ports within the global energy transition, against a backdrop of geopolitical instability, shifting maritime routes and growing sustainability demands. Recent disruptive events — from international conflicts to rising tensions in key chokepoints such as Hormuz, Suez and Bab el-Mandeb — have reshaped global energy flows, exposing the vulnerability of supply chains and highlighting the need for resilient and innovative port infrastructures.

Within this context, Mediterranean ports are emerging as multifunctional energy hubs, integrating logistics, storage and emerging technologies to support decarbonisation. Europe’s diversification of energy sources, combined with the expansion of LNG terminals, alternative fuels and digitalised port operations, is transforming the region into a strategic platform for oil, gas and new low‑carbon energies. 

Italy plays a pivotal role in this evolving landscape, acting as a natural gateway between producing regions and European markets. Its major ports — including Trieste, Augusta, Naples and Porto Levante — stand out as key nodes for energy supply, processing and distribution. Investments in renewable energy, green hydrogen, cold ironing and energy communities further reinforce the potential of Italian ports to drive sustainability, competitiveness and energy security across the Mediterranean.