Rotterdam Shore Power (RSP) has appointed ABB to construct and maintain shore power systems at three deep-sea container terminals in the Port of Rotterdam. The contract follows a competitive tender process, with ABB chosen for its proven track record and high-quality solutions.

The projects cover APM Terminals Maasvlakte II, Hutchison Ports ECT Delta, and Hutchison Ports ECT Euromax, where a total of 8 kilometers of quay will be equipped with 35 shore power connection points for vessels during loading and unloading. Each terminal will receive a dedicated installation, managed as separate construction and operations contracts.

ABB’s scope includes detailed engineering, construction, and multi-year maintenance. Pending final investment approvals and permits, work is expected to begin in the second half of 2027, with the terminals ready to serve ships with shore power from mid-2028.

“We are excited to work together with ABB on these breakthrough projects for RSP”, said Ina Barge and Tiemo Arkesteijn, co-CEOs of Rotterdam Shore Power. “With their expertise and proven track record, we can help make shore power available to all vessels calling at the APMT and ECT terminals in the Rotterdam port, preventing large amounts of CO2-emissions. Rotterdam is a frontrunner with electrification on this scale.”

Together, the projects will create the world’s largest shore power installations, delivering more than 100 MVA of green electricity. ABB will install high-, medium-, and low-voltage cables, converter stations, and fiber-optic connections to ensure reliable power supply at all three terminals.

“This large-scale, multi-installation project for Rotterdam Shore Power demonstrates ABB’s expertise in delivering shore power from concept to connection”, said Rune Braastad, President of ABB’s Marine & Ports division. “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.”

The projects benefit from Dutch government subsidies under the Tijdelijke Subsidieregeling Walstroom Zeeschepen Klimaat (Temporary Climate Subsidy Scheme for Shore Power) and have been selected by the European Commission for funding under the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Facility (AFIF) within the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), supporting Europe’s transport infrastructure and sustainable shipping goals.