Rotterdam Shore Power selects ABB for world’s largest shore power project

ABB has signed contracts with Rotterdam Shore Power (RSP) to engineer and build shore power systems at the Port of Rotterdam.

Rotterdam Shore Power is a joint venture between the Port of Rotterdam and Eneco. The project will deliver the largest shore power system in the world by total capacity, exceeding 100 megavolt-amperes (MVA).

The installations will support major emissions reductions at the port and help operators comply with the EU FuelEU Maritime Regulation. From 1 January 2030, the regulation will require container and passenger vessels above 5,000 gross tonnage to use shore power or equivalent zero-emission technology while berthed at EU ports.

Powering Europe’s largest port

The systems will begin operations in the second half of 2028. ABB will supply custom-designed solutions across three deep-sea container terminals at the Port of Rotterdam.

The project will provide 35 shore power connection points at APM Terminals Maasvlakte II, Hutchison Ports ECT Delta, and Hutchison Ports ECT Euromax. Once operational, the system will supply power to up to 32 container vessels at the same time during cargo operations.

The contracts also include multi-year service agreements for each terminal. ABB booked the contracts in December 2025. The companies did not disclose financial details.

Reduced emissions and scalable design

ABB will design, deliver, install, test, and commission the shore power systems on site. Prefabricated components will shorten installation timelines and limit disruption to terminal operations. The infrastructure will also allow future expansion and integration with renewable energy sources.

ABB’s scope includes its supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system. The platform will monitor system performance, control power distribution, and track energy consumption for accurate customer billing.

By connecting vessels to shore power, ships can switch off auxiliary engines while at berth. According to calculations by Rotterdam Shore Power, using shore power for at least 90 percent of moored time could reduce annual carbon dioxide emissions by around 96,000 metric tons from 2030. The system will also reduce noise and improve air quality across the port area.

Industry reaction

“We are excited to work together with ABB on this breakthrough project for RSP,” said Ina Barge and Tiemo Arkesteijn, Co-Chief Executive Officers, Rotterdam Shore Power. “Their expertise and proven track record allow us to make shore power available to vessels calling at the APMT and ECT terminals, delivering substantial carbon dioxide reductions. Rotterdam is setting the pace for electrification at this scale.”

Rune Braastad, President of ABB’s Marine & Ports division, said the project highlights the company’s end-to-end delivery capabilities. “This multi-installation project demonstrates ABB’s ability to deliver shore power from concept to connection.

Our solutions cover design, commissioning, maintenance, and support while minimizing disruption during installation. We are proud to support the Port of Rotterdam’s decarbonization efforts and contribute to Europe’s goal of emission-free ports.”

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