ABB to build world’s largest shore power system in Rotterdam

ABB has signed contracts with Rotterdam Shore Power (RSP), a joint venture

between the Port of Rotterdam and Eneco, to engineer and construct multiple

shore power systems for the Port of Rotterdam.

The combined installations are expected to be the largest in the world to

date by total capacity, exceeding 100 megavolt-amperes (MVA).

The systems will reduce emissions in the port and support compliance with

the FuelEU Maritime Regulation, which requires all container and passenger ships

over 5,000 gross tonnage to use onshore power supply or equivalent zero-emission

technology in EU ports from 1 January 2030.

Operations are scheduled to start in the second half of 2028. The

custom-designed systems will provide power across three deep-sea container

terminals: APM Terminals Maasvlakte II (APMT) and Hutchison Ports ECT Delta and

ECT Euromax.

The installations will feature 35 connection points, capable of supplying

power to up to 32 containerships simultaneously during loading and

unloading.

Each terminal will also have a multi-year service agreement. The contracts

were booked in December 2025, with financial terms undisclosed.

ABB will handle design, delivery, installation, commissioning and on-site

testing. Prefabricated components aim to reduce installation time and

operational disruption, while the infrastructure is scalable for future growth

and integration with renewable energy.

ABB’s scope includes a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA)

system to monitor and control the shore power system and track energy usage for

accurate billing.

The shore connection allows vessels to switch off engines while at berth.

Rotterdam Shore Power estimates that using shore power for at least 90 per cent

of moored time could cut annual carbon dioxide emissions by around 96,000 metric

tonnes from 2030. Noise pollution will also be eliminated, and local air quality

improved.

Ina Barge and Tiemo Arkesteijn, Co-Chief Executive Officers of Rotterdam

Shore Power, said: “We are excited to work together with ABB on this

breakthrough project for RSP.

“Based on deep knowledge and a proven track record, we can help make shore

power available to all vessels calling at the APMT and ECT terminals at the Port

of Rotterdam, reducing carbon dioxide emissions substantially as a result.

Rotterdam is a frontrunner in electrification at this scale.”

Rune Braastad, President, ABB’s Marine & Ports division, stated: “This

large-scale, multi-installation project for Rotterdam Shore Power demonstrates

ABB’s expertise in delivering shore power from concept to connection.

“Our efficient, proven end-to-end solutions cover everything from design

and commissioning to maintenance and support, while minimising disruption to

operations during the installation phase. We are proud to contribute to the Port

of Rotterdam’s decarbonisation journey in what represents a significant step

towards realising the EU’s ambition for emission-free ports.”

In October 2025, ABB signed a term sheet agreement with SwitcH2 to engineer

and supply automation and electrification solutions for SwitcH2’s floating

production, storage and offloading (FPSO) unit.