To ensure cruise ships are more sustainable when berthed, the Port of Amsterdam is to install ship-to-shore power connections by 2025 at the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA).
The design phase for the electrical connection is currently underway, with the Port of Amsterdam working in partnership with grid operator Liander. The main part of the installation phase will be the laying of power cables, which need to be ready for the start of the cruise season in early 2025. Designs for the supporting installations at the PTA are also being produced, and the possibility to use the electrical connection for other charging infrastructure is also being investigated.
Installation of the ship-to-shore power at the PTA is part of the Clean Shipping Vision, a roadmap set out by the Port of Amsterdam to ensure vessel traffic is more sustainable. Furthermore, by 2050, the Port of Amsterdam aims to have completely emission-free vessel traffic.
The ship-to-shore installation is expected to significantly reduce emissions from cruise ships while also improving the air quality of the surrounding environment due to a reduction in particulate matter. From 2030 it will be a legal requirement for cruise vessels to use ship-to-shore power.
“With the installation of ship-to-shore power, we are working on improving the air quality in the area and making cruises more sustainable,” commented Dorine Bosman, chief investment officer, Port of Amsterdam. “We are also going to be more selective in which sea cruises we allow. From 2024 onward, older ships (with older engines) will no longer be allowed to dock at the PTA. Ships that can connect to ship-to-shore power as from 2025 will be given priority to dock at the PTA. We are investing in a clean port, clean vessel traffic and a clean city.”