ABB has been selected by Rotterdam Shore Power (RSP)—a joint venture between the Port of Rotterdam and Dutch energy company Eneco—to design and deliver multiple shore power installations at the Port of Rotterdam. Once completed, the combined systems will represent the largest shore power project globally, with a total capacity exceeding 100 megavolt-amperes (MVA).
The installations will support significant emissions reduction at Europe’s largest port and help meet the requirements of the EU’s FuelEU Maritime Regulation. From 1 January 2030, the regulation will mandate the use of onshore power supply or equivalent zero-emission technologies for container and passenger vessels above 5,000 gross tonnage calling at EU ports.
The shore power systems are scheduled to become operational in the second half of 2028 and will serve three deep-sea container terminals. ABB will provide power connections across 35 berths at APM Terminals Maasvlakte II, Hutchison Ports ECT Delta, and Hutchison Ports ECT Euromax. The systems will enable up to 32 container vessels to connect simultaneously during cargo operations. The contracts, booked in December 2025, also include multi-year service agreements for each terminal. Financial details were not disclosed.
ABB’s scope of work includes system engineering, supply, installation, commissioning, and on-site testing. The prefabricated design approach is intended to shorten installation timelines and limit disruption to port operations. The infrastructure is designed to be scalable, allowing for future expansion and integration with renewable energy sources. ABB will also supply its SCADA system to monitor operations, manage power distribution, and support accurate energy usage tracking and billing.
By allowing vessels to shut down auxiliary engines while berthed, shore power is expected to deliver substantial environmental benefits. According to Rotterdam Shore Power, using shore power for at least 90 percent of moored time could reduce annual carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 96,000 metric tonnes from 2030 onwards. The systems will also reduce noise levels and improve air quality within the port area.
Commenting on the collaboration, Ina Barge and Tiemo Arkesteijn, Co-Chief Executive Officers of Rotterdam Shore Power, said the project represents a major step in making shore power widely available across the port, reinforcing Rotterdam’s leadership in large-scale electrification.
Rune Braastad, President, Marine & Ports, ABB, said the project demonstrates ABB’s capability to deliver complex shore power systems from design through long-term operation, while supporting the Port of Rotterdam’s decarbonisation objectives.
ABB is a global technology company focused on electrification and automation, supporting industries in improving efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. The company employs around 110,000 people worldwide and has operations spanning more than 140 years of industrial innovation.
