DFDS, a leading European shipping and logistics company, has taken a significant step towards a more sustainable future with the launch of a new shore-power facility at its Vlaardingen terminal. Shore power, also known as cold ironing or alternative maritime power (AMP), allows compatible docked ships to switch off their diesel-powered generators and instead connect to electrical power from onshore sources while in port.
This facility will enable DFDS vessels to plug into the local electrical grid, drawing power from renewable sources such as wind and solar energy in the Netherlands. By eliminating the need for ships to run their engines while berthed, shore power technology significantly reduces emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases, as well as noise pollution in port areas.
By making this transition, DFDS estimates that it will reduce CO2 equivalent Well-to-Wake (WtW) emissions by approximately 2,100 to 2,300 tonnes annually. This move not only contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions but also improves local air quality and reduces noise pollution in the surrounding area.
The partnership between DFDS and Rotterdam Shore Power, a joint venture of Port of Rotterdam and Eneco, has played a crucial role in making this initiative possible. Additionally, support from the local government has further facilitated the transition to a more environmentally friendly approach to maritime operations.
The implementation of shore power technology aligns with DFDS’s commitment to sustainability and underscores the company’s dedication to reducing its environmental footprint. With this new facility operational, DFDS is poised to make a significant contribution to mitigating climate change and promoting cleaner, greener shipping practices in the region.
Source DFDS