ABB to Deliver Large-Scale Shore Power Systems for Port of Rotterdam Container Terminals

ABB has signed contracts with Rotterdam Shore Power (RSP) to engineer and construct multiple shore power installations at the Port of Rotterdam. RSP is a joint venture between the Port of Rotterdam and Eneco.

The combined systems are expected to be the largest shore power installations globally by total capacity, exceeding 100 megavolt-amperes (MVA). The projects are intended to reduce emissions from vessels at berth and support compliance with the EU’s FuelEU Maritime Regulation, which will require container and passenger ships above 5,000 gross tonnage to use onshore power supply or equivalent zero-emission technology in EU ports from 1 January 2030.

Scope and timeline

Operations are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2028. ABB’s custom-designed solutions will supply electricity across three deep-sea container terminals, with 35 connection points at APM Terminals Maasvlakte II and the Hutchison Ports ECT Delta and Hutchison Ports ECT Euromax terminals. The systems will be capable of supplying power to up to 32 container ships simultaneously during cargo operations.

The contracts, booked in December 2025, also include multi-year service agreements for each terminal. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Technology and delivery

ABB’s scope covers engineering, delivery, installation, on-site commissioning and testing. The company will deploy prefabricated solutions to shorten installation timelines and limit operational disruption. The infrastructure is designed to be scalable for future demand and compatible with renewable energy integration.

ABB will also supply a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system to monitor and control shore power operations and track energy consumption for billing purposes.

Emissions impact

Shore power enables vessels to switch off auxiliary engines while berthed. Based on estimates by Rotterdam Shore Power, if shore power is used for at least 90 percent of moored time, annual carbon dioxide emissions from vessels calling at the three terminals could be reduced by approximately 96,000 metric tons from 2030. Additional benefits cited include reduced noise and improved air quality in port areas.

Executive comments

“We are excited to work together with ABB on this breakthrough project for RSP,” said Ina Barge and Tiemo Arkesteijn, Co-Chief Executive Officers of Rotterdam Shore Power. “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.”

Rune Braastad, President of ABB’s Marine & Ports division, said: “This large-scale, multi-installation project for Rotterdam Shore Power demonstrates ABB’s expertise in delivering shore power from concept to connection. Our efficient, proven end-to-end solutions cover everything from design and commissioning to maintenance and support, while minimizing disruption to operations during the installation phase. We are proud to contribute to the Port of Rotterdam’s decarbonization journey in what represents a significant step towards realizing the EU’s ambition for emission-free ports.”