Port of Rotterdam signs off on world’s largest shore power project

RSP has signed a contract for ABB to engineer and construct shore power systems in the Port of Rotterdam, with a total capacity of more than 100 MVA, to serve three terminals at Europe’s largest port from H2 2028.

The combined shore power systems are expected to be the largest in the world to date based on total capacity. The installations will help to significantly reduce emissions in the Port of Rotterdam and support compliance with the FuelEU Maritime Regulation. The legislation will require all container and passenger ships above 5,000 gross tonnes to use onshore power supply or equivalent zero-emissions technology in EU ports from 1 January 2030.

Providing power at 35 connection points across APM Terminals Maasvlakte II (APMT) facility and Hutchison Ports ECT Delta and Hutchison Ports ECT Euromax terminals, ABB’s shore power systems will be able to charge up to 32 container ships simultaneously during loading and unloading operations. The deal includes a multi-year service agreement for each terminal. The contracts were booked in December 2025, and financial terms were not disclosed.

In addition to designing, delivering and installing the shore power systems, ABB will be responsible for commissioning and testing on site. Prefabricated solutions will reduce installation time, keeping operational disruption to a minimum, while infrastructure is scalable to meet future growth needs and integration with renewable energy sources. ABB’s scope of supply includes its supervisory control and data acquisition system, which will provide monitoring and control of the shore power system, and track energy usage for accurate customer billing.

ABB’s shore connection allows vessels to turn off their engines while at berth. Based on calculations by Rotterdam Shore Power, by using shore power for at least 90% of moored time, annual carbon dioxide emissions for the vessels calling at the three deepsea container terminals can be reduced by an estimated 96,000 tonnes from 2030. This will also eliminate noise pollution and significantly improve air quality in the harbour area, leading to a better working and living environment.

“We are excited to work together with ABB on this breakthrough project for RSP,” commented RSP co-chief executives Ina Barge and Tiemo Arkesteijn.

“Based on deep knowledge and a proven track record, we can help make shore power available to all vessels calling at the APMT and ECT terminals at the Port of Rotterdam, reducing carbon dioxide emissions substantially as a result. Rotterdam is a frontrunner in electrification at this scale.”