The Rotterdam World Gateway (RWG) container terminal has planned to equip its whole quayside with shore-based electricity for all vessels.
With the construction of shore-based power facilities, ships will no longer produce particulates, nitrogen, and CO2 when berthed. Furthermore, these amenities will minimise noise pollution.
The first berths are planned to be outfitted with shore-based electricity starting in 2026.
This puts RWG ahead of European regulations, which require all container, passenger, and cruise ships greater than 5,000 gross tonnes in European ports to utilise shore-based power by 2030.
RWG has opted to create, fund, and build its shore-based power systems. This achievement helps RWG reach its objective of becoming CO2-neutral.
According to reports, the Port of Rotterdam Authority and RWG have signed a letter of intent that includes agreements to share information and data on the construction and use of shore-based energy, as well as civil engineering work for quay walls and fenders.
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Boudewijn Siemons, CEO and Interim COO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, said: “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.”
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Ronald Lugthart, CEO of RWG, stated: “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.”