Dutch container terminal Rotterdam World Gateway (RWG) has decided to equip its entire quayside with shore-based power capabilities, enabling all vessels to utilize this eco-friendly power source.
According to a statement, already renowned for its full automation and carbon neutrality, the RWG terminal’s initiative will further enhance environmental sustainability.
With the implementation of shore-based power facilities, ships berthed at the terminal will cease emissions of particulates, nitrogen and CO2. Additionally, this advancement will contribute to a reduction in noise pollution.
“We are very pleased with RWG’s decision to invest as the first European deep-sea terminal operator in shore-based power. Shore-based power is an important and necessary aspect of the energy transition. Ships ‘plugged in’ when berthed ensure better air quality and a reduction in noise pollution. This represents a further contribution to greater sustainability of the supply chain that runs through Rotterdam for the clients we share in common,” commented Boudewijn Siemons, CEO & Interim COO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority.
Shore-based power is anticipated to be integrated into the first berths by 2026, positioning RWG ahead of European regulations, which mandate that all container, passenger, and cruise ships exceeding 5,000 gross tonnes operating at European ports must transition to shore-based power by 2030.
RWG has decided to take on the responsibility of designing, financing, and constructing the shore-based power systems independently, marking another significant step towards achieving its goal of operating entirely CO2-neutral.
Furthermore, in alignment with this initiative, the Port of Rotterdam Authority and RWG have entered into a letter of intent outlining their commitment to exchanging knowledge and data related to the development and utilization of shore-based power, as well as the associated civil engineering tasks required for modifying quay walls and fenders.
“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. Together with our clients and other stakeholders, we are creating possibilities to achieve this strategic goal in the near term using shore-based power and other facilities to support the energy transition,” mentioned Ronald Lugthart, CEO of RWG.
