Rotterdam World Gateway (RWG) container terminal has decided to invest in equiping its entire quayside with shore-based power for all vessels. RWG is the first European deep-sea terminal operator to do this.
The first berths are expected to be equipped with shore-based power from 2026 onwards, ahead of European regulation, which stipulates that all container, passenger and cruise ships larger than 5,000 gross tonnes in European ports must use shore-based power by 2030. RWG is opting to design, finance and build the shore-based power systems itself.
Ambition to become fully CO2 neutral
The investment in shore-based power is a crucial part of RWG’s investment programme, the aim of zero-emission storage and handling of containers. The RWG terminal is already fully automated and CO2 neutral. Construction of shore-based power facilities means that the vessels will also no longer emit particulates, nitrogen and CO2 when at berth. Moreover, these facilities will also reduce noise pollution.
Cooperation with Port of Rotterdam Authority
The Port of Rotterdam Authority and RWG have signed a letter of intent that includes agreements to share knowledge and data concerning the construction and use of shore-based power and the necessary civil-engineering works to quay walls and fenders that this requires.
The municipality of Rotterdam and the Port of Rotterdam Authority are working together to accelerate and scale up shore-based power for sea-going vessels. The aim is that by 2030 a large percentage of seagoing vessels will be ‘plugged in’ when at berth. Diesel generators can then be switched off, which is favourable for air quality and CO2 emissions. Together with enterprises in the port, as well as the shipping companies, a series of projects will be initiated over the coming years to accelerate and expand shore-based power. This development represents yet another a major step forward for Rotterdam in realising a more sustainable and future-proof port. Source: Port of Rotterdam Image: from left to right: Boudewijn Siemons (Port of Rotterdam Authority), Robert Simons (Municipality of Rotterdam) & Ronald Lugthart (RWG)
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