Rotterdam Shortsea Terminals (RST) and Samskip have announced the launch of their Green Shore Power initiative, which aims to reduce CO2 emissions produced by vessels.
The shore power solution for a cargo terminal in the Netherlands’ ports is reportedly the first of its kind.
On 21 July, delegates from Samskip, RST, the Port of Rotterdam (HBR), the Municipality of Rotterdam, and HES convened to commemorate this landmark occasion.
‘Samskip Innovator’ presented an onsite demonstration of the transition between ship power and the new shore power during the celebration.
READ: Samskip to gain two zero emission container vessels
Given that moored warships currently leave their engines running to produce onboard energy while continually burning gasoil, the impact of green onshore power is obvious.
Shore-side power is predicted to cut CO2 emissions by 5 Megatonnes per year (3.7 per cent of worldwide shipping emissions) for the overall maritime sector.
Samskip also plays a prominent role in planning for the FuelEU Maritime legislation, which will necessitate shore-power connection beginning in 2030.
READ: Samskip launches new carbon capture solution
Head of Fleet Management – Vessel, Erik Hofmeester, said: “There are many ways to reduce CO2, such as: Samskip vessels using bio-fuel, the CO2 capturing systems also installed on Samskip vessels, WASP (Wind Assisted Ships Propulsion) and last but not least shore power.
“Green shore power facilitates clean and silent ship-operations in the Port of Rotterdam. We have set ambitious decarbonisation targets for the upcoming years, with a clear aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040.
“Remarkably, this goal puts us a decade ahead of the legally mandated requirement for the maritime industry, which is currently set at 2050. We will also continue to use all our resources to protect the future of our company, our customers and partners and our planet”.
CEO of RST – Arno Storm, stated: “RST is committed to be a frontrunner in energy transition and is taking a leading role in the Port of Rotterdam to work on practical solutions to serve the planet and RST’s customers.
“I am truly proud to be able to say that we are the first container terminal in the Netherlands which has a shore power connection.
“For me, keying in on the path towards CO2 neutrality means partnering with customers and suppliers and I am thrilled that together with Samskip, HES and Jolectra, we have been able to take a first step.”
In June 2023, Samskip expanded its multimodal model in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
