- Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) now offers shore power for cruise ships, allowing them to shut down onboard generators while docked.
- This reduces emissions of particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, CO₂, and noise pollution significantly.
- Shore power use will become mandatory at PTA starting in 2027, ahead of EU regulations.
- The installation includes extensive cabling under the IJ River and a Smart Energy Hub on the quay.
Cruise ships docking at Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) can now connect to a new shore power system, allowing them to turn off their onboard engines and run entirely on electricity supplied from the grid. This innovation substantially reduces harmful emissions and noise at the quay, benefiting residents, visitors, and the environment.
With around 100 cruise calls annually, the system is expected to cut particulate matter emissions by approximately 3 tonnes, nitrogen oxides by 100 tonnes, and CO₂ by nearly 4,800 tonnes. Hester van Buren, Alderman for the Port of Amsterdam, emphasized the importance of the initiative: “This installation is tangible proof that sustainability isn’t about tomorrow — it’s about today.”
Extensive Infrastructure Built Beneath the IJ River
Construction started in May 2023 and wrapped up in early 2025. The project involved laying 4.4 kilometers of cable beneath the IJ River, connecting a substation in Amsterdam-Noord to the terminal at the Veemkade. An additional 8 kilometers of cable was installed beneath the quay and pier decks. Danish company Powercon A/S supplied the system, with BAM Infra Nederland subcontracted for installation, and grid operator Liander overseeing the cabling.
The project was supported by subsidies from the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management and the European Commission. Dick de Graaff, Director of Cruise Port Amsterdam, described the launch as “a major step towards a quieter, cleaner, and more sustainable port,” reinforcing Amsterdam’s leadership in responsible tourism.
Smart Energy Hub and Green Electricity Supply
A Smart Energy Hub located on the terminal’s quay houses the electrical equipment and transformers necessary to deliver shore power to docked vessels. Through a Cable Management System, cables of up to 50 meters can be safely extended to ships.
The electricity supplied includes green energy sourced partly from the Ruigoord wind farm within the Port of Amsterdam, ensuring that the shore power is not only convenient but also environmentally friendly.
Supporting Broader Electrification and Sustainability Goals
Beyond serving cruise ships, there are plans to expand shore power benefits to other parts of the cruise and transport chain, such as electric tour buses, helping to further reduce emissions in the city.
As of 2027, the use of shore power at PTA will be mandatory for all sea cruise vessels equipped for it, putting Amsterdam ahead of upcoming European regulations. This initiative aligns with the city’s ambitious goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050.
Dorine Bosman, Chief Investment Officer at Port of Amsterdam, said, “This shore power facility is an important step towards a more livable city, a sustainable port, and greener cruising.”
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Source: Port of Amsterdam
