An investment of EUR 13 million over two years made this advancement possible, with the German government covering 50% of the costs. This initiative included various test runs with different systems and ships, ensuring a reliable setup for future operations.
The "Vasco de Gama," operated by the French shipping company CMA CGM, became the first cargo vessel to use onshore power at the Container Terminal Hamburg (CTH). This marks a milestone in the port's journey toward sustainable operations.
From 2025, all major cruise and container terminals in Hamburg will feature onshore power connections. This move is unique in Europe and aims to further reduce emissions. The CTH plant will serve three mega-ship berths with connections offering a capacity of 7.5 MVA each. The electricity, sourced from renewable energy, is supplied by Hamburger Energiewerke.
The Hamburg Port Authority is finalizing contracts to expand the use of onshore power. The Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has also committed to using this sustainable power source for its container ships. Additional onshore power systems are planned for the Container Terminal Burchardkai and Altenwerder.
Hamburg’s initiative to extend onshore power to container shipping is expected to inspire other European ports to follow suit. Dr. Peter Tschentscher, Mayor of Hamburg, emphasized the importance of this step in reducing emissions and promoting sustainability. Dr. Melanie Leonhard, Senator of Economics and Labour, highlighted the collaboration with shipping companies, port, and terminal operators to achieve greater sustainability in the maritime industry.