The Port of Antwerp-Bruges announced that it will modernise the quay’s infrastructure introducing shore power facilities and aiming for reduction in emissions and noise pollution.
The Swedish Quay will receive the first shore power installation for cruise ships in Zeebrugge, which will allow ships to switch to green electricity from the high-voltage grid at the quay. Because ships will no longer have to run their diesel generators, emissions of CO2 and particulate matter will be reduced by 98% and 95% respectively.
Work on the shore power installation is scheduled for the autumn of 2025. Furthermore, by 2030, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges wants to install shore power installations for two cruise ships in Zeebrugge, the first of which should be operational in 2027, 3 years before the European obligation.
In addition to the shore power supply, the Port Authority will be investing in new infrastructure for handling cruise ships. A new terminal will be built and the quay area will be redeveloped. This will improve passenger experience, reduce environmental impact, and enhance connectivity. Passengers will be able to walk directly from the ship to the terminal, eliminating the need for buses.
The plan that the Port Authority has in mind converts part of the current quay into a green space. The old railway line will also be given a new purpose with walking and cycling paths.
The study for the new infrastructure will start in 2025, with construction to take place in 2027-2028. The new terminal should be operational in the spring of 2029.
The Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Facility (AFIF) provides a European subsidy of 3.2 million euros for the shore power supply. Additional subsidy opportunities for the modernisation of the terminal are being explored.
