The Port of Amsterdam has launched a shore power system for sea cruise ships at the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA).
As announced, with the new shore power installation, vessels can switch off their onboard generators upon docking, significantly reducing emissions and noise pollution. Starting in 2027, its use at Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) will be mandatory, three years ahead of European regulations, according to the Port of Amsterdam.
By connecting to shore power, sea cruise ships no longer need to run their engines to generate electricity while docked, leading to an estimated annual reduction of approximately 3 tonnes of particulate matter, 100 tonnes of nitrogen oxides, and 4.8 kilotonnes of CO₂ from around 100 calls per year, while also lowering noise levels.
Hester van Buren, Alderman for the Port, praised the collaboration, stating that this installation is tangible proof that sustainability isn’t about tomorrow — it’s about today.
Furthermore, construction began in May 2023 and was completed in early 2025, with Danish company Powercon A/S supplying the system and BAM Infra Nederland as subcontractor. Grid operator Liander installed 4.4 kilometers of cable beneath the IJ River, linking a substation in Amsterdam-Noord to the PTA at Veemkade, plus an additional 8 kilometers of cable laid beneath the quay and pier decks.
The installation was made possible in part through subsidies from the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management and the European Commission.
The commissioning of shore power marks a major step towards a quieter, cleaner, and more sustainable port. This benefits residents, visitors, and the climate, and proves that our cruise terminal has the innovative strength to shape the future of responsible tourism.
…said Dick de Graaff, Director, Cruise Port Amsterdam.
As stated, in addition to serving sea cruise ships, there are plans to explore other uses for the shore power connection. These include encouraging further electrification of the cruise chain, such as tour buses , and supporting broader sustainability efforts in the city.
