Rotterdam Shortsea Terminals (RST) and Samskip have launched their Green Shore Power initiative, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions by docked vessels. It is the first shore power solution of its kind in the Netherlands ports. 

Samskip Innovator was the first vessel to provide an onsite demonstration of the transition between ship power and the new shore power.

The new shore power endeavour was largely possible through the expertise of Harbour Electronical Services (HES) which both prepared and outfitted Samskip’s shortsea vessel “Innovator” to receive shore power. The power supply unit at the quay of RST has been installed by Jolectra.

Step towards decarbonisation

Onshore power supply systems are a critical step towards the decarbonisation of the shipping sector. Given that docked vessels currently leave their engines running to generate onboard electricity while burning gasoil constantly, the impact of green onshore power becomes abundantly clear.

For the entire shipping sector, shore-side electricity is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 5 megatons of CO2 per year (3.7 per cent of global shipping emissions).

With this innovation, Samskip also takes a leading position in preparing for the FuelEU Maritime regulation, which will require shore-power connectivity from 2030 on.

Commenting on the launch of the shore power 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 ports of Rotterdam. We have set ambitious decarbonization 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.”

“RST is committed to be a frontrunner in the 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 sea-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 make a first step. Furthermore I would like to extend my gratitude towards the Port of Rotterdam authorities who have played an active role in the support and establishment of this pilot.”