Sea cruise ships can now connect to shore power in Amsterdam
Sea cruise ships can now make use of shore power at the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA). Thanks to the new installation, vessels can switch off their onboard generators upon docking, significantly reducing emissions and noise pollution. Starting in 2027, the use of shore power at this location will become mandatory—three years ahead of European regulations.
When a sea cruise ship uses the shore power installation, it no longer needs to run its onboard engines to generate electricity while docked. This significantly reduces emissions at the quay. With around 100 calls per year, this leads to an estimated reduction of approximately 3 tonnes of particulate matter, 100 tonnes of nitrogen oxides, and 4.8 kilotonnes of CO₂. Switching off the generators also reduces noise levels. Hester van Buren, Alderman for the Port: “I’m very pleased that the PTA and the Port of Amsterdam have taken such decisive action to install shore power here. It shows what can be achieved when you share ambitions and join forces. This installation is tangible proof that sustainability isn’t about tomorrow — it’s about today.”
4.4 Kilometers of Cable Beneath the IJ River
Construction of the installation began in May 2023 and was completed in early 2025. The Danish company Powercon A/S supplied the system, with BAM Infra Nederland as subcontractor. Grid operator Liander installed a total of 4.4 kilometers of cable beneath the IJ River, connecting a substation in Amsterdam-Noord to the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) at the Veemkade. An additional 8 kilometers of cable was 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. Dick de Graaff, Director of Cruise Port Amsterdam: "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."
Smart Energy Hub
A Smart Energy Hub has been constructed on the quay at the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam. This facility houses the systems of the grid operator, the transformers, and the shore power equipment. From here, electricity is distributed to the shore power cabinets along the quay. Using the Cable Management System, up to 50 meters of cable can be extended and connected to the ship. The green electricity comes in part from the Ruigoord wind farm in the port of Amsterdam.
Remaining Capacity for the City
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.
Contributing to Climate Goals
Sea cruise ships already equipped for shore power will be given priority in Amsterdam. Starting in 2027, the use of shore power for sea cruise vessels will be mandatory. With the commissioning of this shore power installation, Port of Amsterdam contributes to the city’s ambition of becoming climate neutral by 2050. Dorine Bosman, Chief Investment Officer at Port of Amsterdam: "This shore power facility is an important step towards a more livable city, a sustainable port, and greener cruising. The terminal’s central location calls for quiet and clean solutions — and that is exactly what we are now offering."
De shore power installation was officialy opened by Alderman Hester van Buren on 3 June 2025.