The European Investment Bank (EIB) is providing a €90 million loan to the Port of Rotterdam Authority to install shore power facilities at three deep-sea container terminals in the port. The project, delivered through Rotterdam Shore Power—a joint venture with Eneco—will equip eight kilometres of quay with 35 connection points for large container ships, allowing vessels to switch from onboard fossil fuel generators to onshore electricity while docked. The installation includes the grid connection, cabling, and associated construction works, enabling ships to reduce CO₂ emissions, air pollution, noise, and particulate emissions.
In addition to the EIB loan, the project will receive an estimated €70 million grant from the European Commission under the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Facility (AFIF) of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF). The combined financing supports the European transport network’s transition to electric mobility and strengthens the port’s long-term sustainability. The shore power facilities are expected to be operational in phases starting from the second half of 2028.
EIB Vice-President Robert de Groot highlighted the project’s environmental and economic benefits, noting that reducing reliance on fossil fuels improves public health and energy autonomy, especially in the current geopolitical context. Vivienne de Leeuw, CFO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, emphasized the importance of shore power for achieving climate-neutral operations by 2050 while maintaining the port’s competitiveness. Cecilia Thorfinn from the European Commission underlined the role of sustainable transport infrastructure in ensuring Europe’s energy independence and supporting the rollout of alternative fuel solutions.
The initiative aligns with EU priorities, including the CEF’s goal of developing sustainable and efficient trans-European networks in transport, energy, and digital services. The Port of Rotterdam Authority aims to operate as a climate-neutral, future-proof logistics hub, promoting sustainable development, efficient shipping services, and environmental protection. The project exemplifies the combined impact of EIB financing and EU grants in accelerating the green transition and supporting Europe’s broader emissions and energy security targets.
