NYK Group's subsidiary launches shore power facility at the port of Zeebrugge

International Car Operators (ICO), part of Japan’s NYK Group, has inaugurated Belgium’s first shore power facility dedicated to roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels at the port of Zeebrugge.

IMAGE: NYK-operated PCTC receiving electricity directly from the shore power facility in the port of Zeebrugge. NYK Line

After successfully completing a trial phase in early June, during which all technical requirements were verified, the system was used for the first time by an NYK-operated pure car and truck carrier (PCTC), which received electricity directly from the shore-based installation while berthed.

This marks “the first commercial operation of a shore power system for RoRo vessels in Belgium, as well as the first use of shore power by the NYK Group for a PCTC at berth,” according to NYK Line.

The facility can currently supply power to one vessel at a time, though its capacity may be expanded in the future.

All electricity delivered through the system is sourced from renewable energy generated by ICO’s on-site wind farm, which consists of 11 turbines. The terminal operator also provides the necessary cables and connection equipment, enabling vessels without dedicated onboard shore power systems to access the service.

By allowing ships to switch off their auxiliary engines and draw electricity from the port while alongside, shore power helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. The technology also supports improved air quality in and around port areas.

The project received partial funding from the Flemish Agency for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (VLAIO).

By Tuhin Roy

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