Expression of Interest For Grid Capacity Assessment For Sao Paulo Waterway Crossings

Expression of Interest for Grid Capacity Assessment for Sao Paulo Waterway Crossings This Expression of Interest relates to analytical and advisory support for the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) for Waterway Crossings in the State of São Paulo, tendered in November 2025, for which the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) is preparing a USD 175 million loan. The objective is to develop and support the implementation of an optimal strategy for the electrification of São Paulos water crossings, grounded in a robust assessment of electricity distribution grid capacity, charging infrastructure requirements, and viable business models involving local electricity concessionaires. The proposed analytical work will generate in-depth technical and operational knowledge for the Government of São Paulo and the waterway transport concessionaire, which will be responsible for coordinating with local energy utilities to ensure reliable electricity supply to charging infrastructure (totems) installed at terminal areas. The assessment will cover current and future power generation and distribution conditions at each terminal, including substation capacity, transformer availability, grid reliability, overall capacity constraints, and simulations of cumulative charging loads under different operational scenarios. By aligning vessel charging, storage, and propulsion system design with grid characteristics, the project will enable a smooth transition from an obsolete diesel ferry fleet to electric vessels, delivering significant annual COe savings and modernizing the states water transport system. As the first project of its kind in Brazil, its successful implementation has strong potential to serve as a blueprint for other Brazilian states and as a replicable, innovative model for waterborne electromobility across Latin America and the Caribbean. Tender Link : https://wbgeprocure-rfxnow.worldbank.org/rfxnow/public/advertisement/6493/view.html