In a major move to enhance environmental sustainability, the Port of Gothenburg has signed a contract to construct a high-capacity transformer station to power its container and car terminals with shore-side electricity. The initiative paves the way for container and RoRo vessels to connect to onshore power and cut emissions while docked, ahead of EU regulations taking effect in 2030.
Clean Energy for Cleaner Ports
The upcoming transformer station will enable Onshore Power Supply (OPS) for a total of seven berths—five at the container terminal and two at the car terminal. This will allow ships to switch off diesel engines and plug into cleaner electricity while berthed.
According to port officials, connecting container vessels alone could eliminate at least 5,600 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually, in addition to reducing sulfur and nitrogen oxides. The project is expected to enhance air quality and working conditions for terminal workers and surrounding communities.
Infrastructure Timeline and Investment
The project is being delivered by AF Bygg Väst, a division of AF Gruppen Sweden. The SEK 129 million (EUR 11.4 million) contract covers the construction of a 19 MVA transformer station, to be located in the northern part of the car terminal. Work will begin in Q2 of 2025 and conclude by March 2027.
The shore power infrastructure investment, including switchgear and cabling for all seven berths, will total approximately SEK 600 million (EUR 52.8 million). The EU’s Connecting Europe Facility fund will contribute SEK 90 million towards the project.
Technical Overview
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Facility size: 56m × 18m
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Location: Car terminal’s northern edge
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Power capacity: 4 MVA per berth (expandable to 8 MVA)
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Berths supported: 7 (5 container, 2 car)
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Completion target: March 2027
This project marks a significant step toward a net-zero shipping future for northern Europe’s largest port. By investing in OPS for large commercial vessels and aligning with EU climate regulations, the Port of Gothenburg is positioning itself as a leader in green maritime infrastructure. The initiative demonstrates how forward-looking ports can help decarbonize global trade routes and set new standards in operational sustainability.
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Source: The Port of Gothenburg
