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Antwerp Euroterminal Introduces Belgium’s First Shore Power for Seagoing Vessels

Antwerp Euroterminal (AET) is set to become the first in Belgium to provide shore power for seagoing vessels, marking a significant milestone in the country’s maritime sector. This initiative will see docked vessels powered by electricity from the local grid, significantly reducing emissions and environmental noise.

Shore power, a game-changer for the maritime industry, allows moored ships to plug into the local electricity grid via a quay socket. This innovative solution cuts down on CO2, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, and particulate matter, thereby enhancing air quality and reducing noise pollution. At AET, two fixed shore power connections will cater specifically to car carriers and conro vessels. Despite EU regulations mandating shore power for container vessels by 2030, AET has taken a proactive step, setting up these connections ahead of time.

The project will be handled by the HOPaS (High Voltage Onshore Power As a Service) consortium, comprising Techelec, Yuso, and Whitewood. With an investment of €25 to €30 million, including a €4 million subsidy from the Flemish agency for innovation (VLAIO), the installation is slated to be operational by 2026. The facility will provide a total capacity of 5MW, initially powered by three wind turbines on-site, supplemented by solar panels and additional wind turbines planned for the terminal. A large battery system will store the generated green energy to optimize its use.

Shore power is integral to the Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ sustainability efforts. The port already offers numerous connection points for barges and tugs, with plans to provide quayside electricity for cruise ships in Zeebrugge by 2026 and for the largest container ships by 2028.

Annick De Ridder, President of the Board of Directors of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, emphasized the project’s importance: “Shore power is essential for our sustainable ambitions as a world port. This first installation for deep-sea vessels is a fine example of how we are pioneering and innovating for the port of the future.”

Yves De Larivière, CEO of Antwerp Euroterminal, echoed this sentiment, noting the progression from powering e-bikes, cars, and soon trucks, to now enabling vessels to plug in. Andrea D’Ambra of the Grimaldi Group highlighted the company’s ongoing efforts in decarbonization and its excitement about the new project at AET.

This landmark development not only underscores AET’s commitment to environmental sustainability but also sets a precedent for other terminals in the region, showcasing the tangible benefits of integrating shore power into port operations.

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