Europe

The implementation of this state-of-the-art photovoltaic system underscores Rhenus Switzerland’s commitment to environmentally friendly practices. The generated renewable energy will be seamlessly integrated into Rhenus’s network, providing power to three key structures on the site, including offices, warehousing, and rented spaces. With a logistics facility featuring 23 loading bays, over 15,000 pallet spaces, as well as block storage and stock-picking areas, the sustainable power source will effectively meet the energy demands of the entire complex, reinforcing Rhenus’s strides towards a greener and more energy-efficient operation.

Construction works are in progress at the Baltic Container Terminal (BCT), the largest terminal in the Port of Riga, located in Kundziņsala. Underwater works aimed at constructing a new berth section have been successfully completed. Upon project completion, cargo loading and unloading processes at the terminal will be expedited, enhancing operational efficiency and the terminal’s commercial competitiveness. Recognizing the terminal’s reception of military vessels, the increased berth capacity serves as an investment in enhancing military mobility and reinforcing the overall security of the country and NATO.

The Szczecin and Świnoujście Seaports Authority SA has entered into a preliminary agreement with a consortium comprising DEME CONCESSIONS N.V. from Belgium and QTERMINALS W.L.L. from The State of Qatar. The agreement outlines a 30-year lease for land in the outer port of Świnoujście to facilitate the financing, construction, and operation of the Deep-water Container Terminal. This initiative aligns with the “Seaport Development Program until 2023,” aiming to bolster the position of Polish ports in the Baltic Sea and establish crucial nodes in the global supply chain for Central and Eastern Europe.

K+S, a leading European fertilizer manufacturer and salt supplier, is expanding its collaboration with DB Cargo through a new decade-long contract, continuing a strong and long-term logistics partnership. This enduring agreement covers approximately 70 million tons of transport volume, equivalent to over a million wagon loads. As a key player in the global food supply chain through fertilizer production, K+S also supplies industrial and food-grade salt to clients worldwide.

The Rhenus Group has undertaken a significant initiative to upgrade two canal push boats operated by Deutsche Binnenreederei (DBR) with state-of-the-art Stage V engines, aligning them with future environmental standards. As part of Rhenus’ ongoing fleet development plan to meet climate protection goals, this modernization effort is part of a broader strategy to equip the entire fleet with the latest engine technology. While the development of new hydrogen-powered vessels remains a long-term project, Rhenus is prioritizing short-term sustainability by retrofitting older vessels, starting with the canal push boats RSPSB146 and RSPSB153, both dating back to the 1970s.

The Duisburg Gateway Terminal (DGT), destined to become Europe’s largest inland terminal, is making steady progress, with the implementation of its crane system now underway. The initial girder is already operational on the terminal’s six rail tracks, and a second one is currently being added. Duisport revealed that this marks a significant milestone for the DGT project, with three cranes planned for the first expansion phase, two at dock A and one at dock B. Spanning over 220,000 square meters on the Coal Island of the German port, the terminal will feature six cranes, twelve rail freight platforms, five loading zones, three barge berths, and a 60,000-square-meter container storage area. The completion of the first construction phase is expected by the first quarter of 2024, and once operational, the terminal will have the capacity to handle containers weighing up to 43 tonnes.

DB Cargo has unveiled an updated map of its network, providing a comprehensive overview of the extensive global rail network spanning north to south and east to west. The map serves as an accessible tool, offering instant insight into the network’s benefits and essential information. The focus of this Logistics News series is on the southeastern route, revealing its significance and features.

On October 27, the inaugural phase of constructing the national hydrogen network was officially launched in Rotterdam’s port, with distinguished guests including King Willem-Alexander, Minister Jetten for Climate and Energy Policy, Mayor of Rotterdam Ahmed Aboutaleb, and the King’s Commissioner. This strategic network, spanning 1,200 kilometers, is accessible to all hydrogen suppliers and buyers, providing connectivity to five Dutch industrial clusters and establishing a link to Germany through the Delta Rhine Corridor.

The traditional receptions for business partners of the Port of Koper in Austria and the Czech Republic were successful, attracting over 400 guests. The events, held at the Natural History Museum in Vienna and the Prague City Hall, provided a platform for networking, business interactions, and strengthening partnership ties within the Port of Koper community.

The Kijfhoek marshalling yard, the largest in the Netherlands and a key transportation hub connecting the port of Rotterdam to Germany, is set to undergo significant modernization in the near future. This poses a substantial challenge as Kijfhoek plays a crucial role in supplying empty wagons to western ports. Especially during the cold months, DB Cargo Nederland actively utilizes hubs like Kijfhoek to transport liquefied petroleum gas for heating to Germany and Eastern Europe. This is a vital commodity relied upon by many during the cold winter season.