The City of Rotterdam and the Port of Rotterdam Authority have presented an updated Shore Power Strategy 2025–2035, outlining a ten-year roadmap to expand shore power facilities across the port. The initiative aims to make shore power the standard for much of the port’s shipping by 2030 and achieve zero-emission berthing by 2050.

Shore power allows vessels to switch off their engines while docked and plug into the electrical grid, reducing emissions and noise. The strategy focuses on expanding publicly accessible quays, preparing for the upcoming AFIR regulation (effective January 2030), and scaling shore power across all shipping segments.

Since the first strategy launch in 2020, Rotterdam has installed more than 100 shore power points with a combined capacity exceeding 43 MW. This year, a major milestone was reached with the commissioning of shore power at the cruise terminal. The Port Authority has supported the rollout through investments and facilitation, while the municipality has provided subsidies for feasibility studies and installation projects.

Robert Simons, Alderman for the port: “Rotterdam wants to lead in the energy transition and economic development in the port. This shore power strategy sets the course until 2035, but we want all parties to be ready by 2030. The goals are urgent and require speed, courage, and results. This is the most ambitious shore power strategy in Europe—and we are proud of that.”

Boudewijn Siemons, CEO Port of Rotterdam Authority: “Shore power is not a distant dream; it is a solution for today. It directly contributes to a cleaner and healthier port and reduces emissions and noise. We aim to make shore power the norm for a large part of shipping by 2030 and lay the foundation for full rollout after 2035. This strategy is ambitious, realistic, and necessary—because a sustainable port is a strong port for everyone.”

Some areas of the port face grid congestion, complicating immediate expansion. Authorities plan to explore solutions such as mobile shore power installations and alternative grid contracts to accelerate future deployment once capacity constraints are resolved.

The updated strategy underscores Rotterdam’s commitment to leading Europe in sustainable port operations and green shipping.