In a major step toward decarbonizing maritime operations, the Port of Hamburg has successfully completed its first shore-side power trial for container ships. The milestone highlights the port’s commitment to sustainability and paves the way for more environmentally friendly port operations in one of Europe’s busiest logistics hubs.

Landmark Moment: MSC Athens Connects to Clean Power

The MSC Athens, a modern container vessel, was the first to connect to and draw renewable electricity from a shore-side power system while docked at the HHLA Container Terminal Altenwerder (CTA). This successful test, conducted during the vessel’s lay time, marks a significant leap in the Hamburg Port Authority’s (HPA) transition to clean energy at the waterfront.

The electricity provided during this trial came entirely from renewable sources, reinforcing the port’s alignment with Germany’s national and EU-wide decarbonization targets.

Growing Green Infrastructure at Hamburg

The successful test marks the debut of the new shore-side power station at CTA, operated by HPA in collaboration with key partners, including HHLA, MSC, Powercon, and Igus. With three shore-side power stations already operational at CTA, another station at HHLA Container Terminal Burchardkai is expected to be online by the end of 2025. This expansion will ensure that all mega-ship berths in Hamburg can provide shore power, making the port one of the most sustainable in Europe.

Key Data on the Shore-Side Power Initiative

Key Aspect	Details
First Test Vessel	MSC Athens
Test Location	HHLA Container Terminal Altenwerder (CTA)
Power Source	100% renewable energy
Power Station Operators	Hamburg Port Authority (HPA)
Partners Involved	HPA, HHLA, MSC, Powercon, Igus
Current Shore Power Stations	3 at CTA
Upcoming Expansion	New power station at Burchardkai to be operational by end of 2025
Target Coverage	Shore power availability at all mega-ship berths

Why Shore-Side Power Matters: Key Benefits

Benefit	Description
Reduced Emissions	Ships can shut off engines, reducing greenhouse gases and local air pollution.
Lower Fuel Costs	Electricity from the grid lowers fuel consumption and overall operating costs.
Regulatory Compliance	Helps ships meet stricter environmental rules, avoiding penalties.
Energy Efficiency	Grid-sourced renewable energy is more efficient than diesel generators.
Operational Efficiency	Reduces emissions during busy port operations, improving overall flow.
Competitiveness	Vessels equipped with shore-power tech gain access to more eco-forward ports.
Sustainability	Aligns with global decarbonization goals, ensuring long-term environmental value.
Positive Image	Enhances reputation with eco-conscious stakeholders and the public.
Future-Proofing	Prepares port and shipping lines for upcoming clean energy regulations.

Looking Ahead: A Model for Future Ports

With further trials planned and the integration of shore-side power into daily port operations underway, Hamburg is setting a benchmark for clean port transformation in Europe. The initiative not only addresses urgent environmental concerns but also boosts Hamburg’s global reputation as a smart, sustainable logistics hub ready for the next generation of maritime trade.