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Port of Amsterdam, along with its partners, unveiled three crucial agreements during the H2 Connecting Event in Duisburg. Presided over by His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, the event aims to strengthen collaboration between the Netherlands and Germany in the realm of renewable hydrogen and lay the foundation for intra-European corridors. The agreements, aligned with these objectives, aim to maximize the existing partnerships of the Port of Amsterdam with leading prospective producers.

The Rhenus Group is spearheading a significant transformation by retrofitting two canal push boats operated by Deutsche Binnenreederei (DBR) with state-of-the-art Stage V engines, aligning with their commitment to climate protection goals. This initiative is part of a broader plan to modernize the entire fleet with the latest engine technology, bridging the gap until the development of more sustainable hydrogen-powered vessels. The first vessels undergoing this eco-friendly transformation are the canal push boats RSPSB146 and RSPSB153, originally built in the 1970s, which now feature modern diesel generators by SCANIA and Caterpillar, boasting Stage 5 exhaust gas treatment for a substantial 40 percent reduction in particulate matter emissions.

Boskalis has taken a significant step towards sustainability by inaugurating a shore-based power facility at its Waalhaven site in Rotterdam. This service center, equipped with dedicated berths, will eliminate the need for diesel-powered generators on moored vessels, which will now transition to green shore-based power. The installation is expected to generate 2 GWh of green electricity annually, resulting in a substantial reduction of 1,600 tonnes of CO2 emissions and contributing to improved air quality and reduced noise levels in the region.

Rail Cargo Group (RCG) presents effective multimodal solutions for cargo transportation, establishing direct connections between Bratislava and Budapest with freight terminals in Istanbul (Halkali) and Köseköy, creating links across Europe and the CIS countries. This innovative service enables businesses to transport goods to and from CIS countries using land transport. RCG provides regular departures on a fixed schedule with appealing transit times and flexible handling options, regardless of whether the company has its own platform.

The successful completion of the groundwater pollution remediation project in the Port of Riga, with financial support from Switzerland, has been approved by the Swiss Parliament, the Freeport of Riga Authority, the Ministry of Environment and Regional Development, and the State Environmental Service. Following the assessment of the project’s progress and outcomes, plans are underway to launch a new cooperation program for the cleanup of historically contaminated areas in Aizkraukle, building on the successful experience gained in the Port of Riga.

Enova has pledged a significant amount of 171.8 million Norwegian kroner to support Viasea Shipping in acquiring two hydrogen-powered container ships. These vessels will be utilized on Viasea’s existing routes between Norway and Northern Europe, with the aim of leading the maritime industry towards investing in emission-free ships. The concept of these ships focuses on reducing energy consumption by incorporating green hydrogen and rotor sails, harnessing nature’s renewable energy. Initially, hydrogen refueling will take place in Norway, but as hydrogen becomes available along the planned route, the ships will be able to operate without diesel entirely. This transition from hydrogen and diesel operation to 100% hydrogen operation will result in a remarkable 75% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to traditional diesel-powered vessels. Viasea Shipping is committed to offering greener freight alternatives to the market, aligning with their vision of providing the best sea freight option in terms of environmental impact, time, and cost. With the support of Enova funds, their latest strategy places even greater emphasis on the environmental and sustainability aspects of sea freight, as they plan to construct two new ships.

Port of Tallinn has inked a deal with Estonian Stockpiling Agency (EVK) for the provision of port services at Pakrineeme Harbour, focusing on the LNG quay. Port of Tallinn will manage infrastructure, marine traffic, and pollution control manpower, while EVK retains ownership of Pakrineeme Harbour’s infrastructure. Operating the port remotely from Paldiski and Muuga harbours, Port of Tallinn aims for modern and cost-effective management without on-site personnel or additional facilities.