• ABB to design and build shore power systems in Port of Rotterdam with total capacity exceeding 100 MVA
• Customized system serving three container terminals at Europe’s premier port from late 2028
• Installations will cut emissions and noise pollution significantly

ABB has secured agreements with Rotterdam Shore Power (RSP), a collaboration between the Port of Rotterdam and Eneco, a Dutch-based global energy provider, to design and implement shore power systems featuring multiple installations across the Port of Rotterdam.

The integrated shore power systems are projected to become the world’s most powerful based on combined capacity, surpassing 100 megavolt-amperes (MVA). These installations will substantially cut emissions within the Port of Rotterdam and aid compliance with the FuelEU Maritime Regulation. This regulation mandates that container and passenger vessels exceeding 5,000 gross tons must utilize onshore power or equivalent zero-emission alternatives in EU ports starting 1 January 2030.

Planned to commence operations in late 2028, the bespoke solutions will supply power to three deep-sea container terminals at Europe’s leading port. Delivering electricity through 35 connection points across APM Terminals Maasvlakte II (APMT) facility and Hutchison Ports ECT Delta and Hutchison Ports ECT Euromax terminals, ABB’s systems will support simultaneous charging of up to 32 container ships during cargo operations. The agreement also covers multi-year service contracts for each terminal. Contracts were recorded in December 2025, with financial details remaining confidential.

Beyond designing, supplying, and installing the systems, ABB will oversee on-site commissioning and testing. Prefabricated components will expedite installation, minimizing operational disruptions, while ensuring infrastructure scalability for future expansion and compatibility with renewable energy sources. ABB’s deliverables include its supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system, enabling system monitoring, operational control, and precise energy usage tracking for billing accuracy.

ABB’s shore connection technology enables vessels to deactivate engines during docking. According to Rotterdam Shore Power calculations, utilizing shore power for at least 90% of moored time could reduce annual carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 96,000 metric tons from 2030 for ships visiting the three deep-sea container terminals. This will also eliminate noise pollution and markedly improve air quality in the port area, enhancing both work and living conditions.

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with ABB on this pioneering initiative for RSP,” stated Ina Barge and Tiemo Arkesteijn, Co-Chief Executive Officers of Rotterdam Shore Power. “Leveraging ABB’s extensive expertise and proven capabilities, we can provide shore power access to all vessels docking at APMT and ECT terminals in Rotterdam, significantly lowering carbon dioxide emissions. Rotterdam leads the way in large-scale port electrification.”

“This extensive, multi-installation project for Rotterdam Shore Power highlights ABB’s comprehensive capabilities in delivering shore power from concept to completion,” said Rune Braastad, President of ABB’s Marine & Ports division. “Our efficient, field-tested end-to-end solutions encompass design, commissioning, maintenance, and support, while ensuring minimal operational disruption during installation. We’re honored to support the Port of Rotterdam’s decarbonization efforts, marking a crucial milestone toward the EU’s vision of zero-emission ports.”

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