GETTING GREENER, RESPECTING PEOPLE AND NATURE | ESPORG voluntary green truck parking standards
GETTING GREENER, RESPECTING PEOPLE AND NATURE | ESPORG voluntary green truck parking standards
On the 4th of March 2026, ESPORG hosted an inspiring workshop titled “Energy Transition – Green Parking Standard,” bringing together key stakeholders from across Europe to explore the future of sustainable truck parking. This dynamic event combined thought-provoking keynotes, expert panel discussions, and the festive launch of the Green Parking Standard certifications. Held in the spirit of collaboration, the workshop highlighted how safe and secure truck parking areas (SSTPAs) can lead the the sector’s move toward EU climate neutrality goals by 2050, while addressing energy challenges and fostering innovation in road transport.
The program was divided into two engaging segments: a morning session on the broader energy transition in transport, followed by an afternoon focus on the Green Parking Standard. Attendees gained valuable insights into regulatory frameworks, practical implementations, and real-world experiences from pioneering operators. The event underscored the Green Parking Standard’s role as a voluntary, adaptable framework that builds on EU SSTPA certifications with more than 40 criteria emphasizing decarbonization, renewable energy, circular economy practices, and more—empowering operators to turn sustainability into a competitive advantage.
The workshop kicked off at 09:30 with a warm welcome from Dirk Penasse, General Manager of ESPORG, setting an optimistic tone for the day’s discussions on advancing green infrastructure in truck parking.
In a compelling address, Filip outlined the EU’s vision for electrifying road transport, emphasizing the need for safe parking hubs equipped for electric charging. He highlighted ongoing funding through the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), with over €300 million already awarded for SSTPAs and a proposed €51 billion for future infrastructure priorities. Filip stressed the importance of upgrading existing parkings, revising the Delegated Act for new technologies like sensors and electrification, and aiming for 380,000 secure parking spots by 2040 to support resilient logistics.
Frédéric delved into the implications of the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Facility (AFIF) and Regulation (AFIR), urging operators to integrate energy management from the site selection stage. He discussed challenges like grid proximity becoming a key factor for new developments, public funding opportunities, business model impacts, and shared experiences from SSPAs. Frédéric emphasized mandatory requirements, such as reefer trailer charging by 2026 and heavy-duty truck charging stations by 2027–2030, positioning the Green Parking Standard as ESPORG’s proactive initiative to guide sustainable practices.
As Europe’s market leader in public charging hubs for electric trucks, Koen highlighted grid constraints and the need for strategies like batteries and flexible contracts. He encouraged collaborations, noting MILENCE’s willingness to partner on sites and replace depot needs with public hubs at secure parkings.
Godfried emphasized shippers’ role in sustainable real estate and CSR, noting how green parkings can attract major transport companies by aligning with zero-waste and renewable goals.
Dirk reinforced the need for insurer involvement (e.g., TT Club) to facilitate investments and highlighted regional differences in sustainability approaches.
The panel sparked lively debates on grid strategies, business cases, and collaborations, with audience questions on alternatives like HVO (noted as expensive and limited) and the role of ports/logistics hubs in power allocation.
A short break at 11:00 allowed for networking before diving into the Green Parking Standard.
Peter and Carla detailed the certification’s openness to all SSTPA-certified parkings, with levels from one to four. They showcased examples of criteria, such as providing on-site charging (5 points), solar panels on 70% of roofs (5 points), waste separation (5 points), rainwater drainage (5 points), GHG emissions disclosure (3 points), LED lighting (1 point), green spaces (up to 2.5 points), and innovative ideas (up to 3 points). Emphasizing feasibility, they noted pilots revealed many parkings already excelling, with the standard offering guidelines for growth and recognition.
Florin shared Eastern European parking operators’perspective, overcoming initial skepticism to integrate green practices like efficient supply chains and community-friendly designs, proving the standard’s adaptability despite regional challenges.
Adela emphasized the importance of going beyond regulations with investments in energy efficiency, waste-to-compost systems, and zero-landfill goals, placing the emphasis on the sizeablereturns through operational savings and community sharing.
The workshop culminated in a small festive ceremony led by Dirk Penasse, officially handing over the first Green Parking Certificates—a milestone moment for a sector committed to sustainability. These pioneers demonstrate how the standard drives measurable progress in decarbonizing transport, promoting renewables, increasing efficiency and enhancing driver well-being.
Congratulations to the first certified parkings from four countries (France, Romania, Spain, Denmark):
These front-runners are not waiting for the future—they’re building it, inspiring others to join the green revolution.
The event wrapped up with a networking lunch at 13:00, leaving participants energized to implement these insights. ESPORG’s Green Parking Standard is more than a certification; it’s a roadmap for resilient, eco-friendly truck parking that benefits operators, drivers, and the planet. Stay tuned for more updates, and contact us to learn how your parking can get certified!
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