ABB to power Rotterdam’s clean future
The company will deliver custom onshore power systems for three major container terminals, enabling cleaner operations at Europe’s largest port.
Image for illustrative purposes
The Netherlands, the Port of Rotterdam: ABB has been chosen by Rotterdam Shore Power (RSP) to design and build major shore power systems for the Port of Rotterdam. RSP is a joint venture between the Port of Rotterdam and Dutch energy company Eneco.
With a combined capacity of more than 100 MVA, the project is expected to be the largest shore power installation in the world to date. The systems will play a key role in reducing emissions at Europe’s biggest port and will help ships meet the upcoming FuelEU Maritime Regulation. From 1 January 2030, the law will require large container and passenger vessels in EU ports to use onshore power or other zero-emission solutions while docked.
The tailor-made installations are due to start operating in the second half of 2028. They will supply electricity to three deep-sea container terminals: APM Terminals Maasvlakte II, Hutchison Ports ECT Delta and Hutchison Ports ECT Euromax. In total, 35 connection points will be available, allowing up to 32 container ships to draw power at the same time during loading and unloading. Each terminal will also be covered by a multi-year service agreement. The contracts were recorded in December 2025, with financial details not disclosed.
ABB will handle the full process, including design, delivery, installation, testing and commissioning. Prefabricated units will shorten installation time and limit disruption to port operations. The infrastructure is designed to expand in the future and connect with renewable energy sources. ABB will also provide its SCADA system to monitor performance and energy use, supporting accurate billing.
By switching off engines at berth and using shore power for most of their stay, vessels could cut carbon dioxide emissions by around 96,000 tonnes a year from 2030, while also removing noise and improving air quality around the port.
Source: ABB
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