Duisburg Gateway Terminal launches climate-neutral project

The Port of Duisburg has initiated the “enerPort II” project at the Duisburg Gateway Terminal (DGT), aiming to operate a large terminal entirely climate-neutrally using solar energy and hydrogen.

Covering 235,000 cubic metres (m²), the terminal’s power will come from photovoltaic systems, fuel cells, and a combined heat and power plant, integrated via battery storage and a smart microgrid for efficient energy management.

Alexander Garbar, Head of Corporate Development at duisport, stated: “The first hydrogen delivery took place in May, and since then, all components have been successfully tested.

“The grid connection has been approved, so photovoltaics and battery storage can also make their contribution.”

A key benefit: ships can access emission-free shore-side power, advancing CO2 reduction in port operations.

Funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy with €11.6 million ($13.5 million), the project tests hydrogen technology in a highly connected environment.

Markus Bangen, duisport CEO, said: “What we are now doing here at the largest container hub in the European hinterland is bold, innovative, and consistent.

“It can become a blueprint for other sustainable terminal projects, making it a flagship project that will have an impact far beyond Duisburg.”

Recently, Wattlab, a Dutch maritime solar technology company, delivered a solar energy system for HGK Shipping’s inland cargo vessel Blue Marlin.