The Port of Antwerp-Bruges has secured a 3.2 million euro European grant to implement a shore power installation for cruise ships at Zeebrugge. By 2026, cruise ships docking at the port will have the option to access green electricity, a move expected to become mandatory across Europe in four years. This initiative aligns with the port’s goal to drive the energy transition in the maritime sector, leveraging its unique position as the operator of the cruise terminal at Zweedse Kaai in Zeebrugge.
Funded through the EU’s Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Facility (AFIF) programme as part of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), the shore power facility project received approval with the announcement of 3.2 million euros in subsidies. This development is crucial as cruise ships, known for their high energy consumption while docked, will now be able to switch to green electricity from the grid, eliminating emissions and noise from diesel generators. Discussions are in the final stages to appoint a partner for the construction, maintenance, and operation of the shore power system, further solidifying the port’s commitment to reducing environmental impact and fostering sustainability.