The Container terminal Rotterdam World Gateway (RWG) has announced its decision to expand its terminal in the Prinses Amaliahaven on the Maasvlakte in the port of Rotterdam. The expansion will consist of approximately 45 hectares of terminal site and 920 meters of quay wall, increasing RWG’s capacity by 1.8 million TEU (standard size for containers). The expansion will be conducted in phases and will be fully automated and carbon-neutral, aligning with the existing terminal.
The first phase of the expansion is expected to be operational by the end of 2025. The terminal will also be equipped for shore power and connected to the Container Exchange Route (CER), enhancing its sustainability and logistics capabilities.
Currently, RWG has access to approximately 100 hectares of land, 1,150 meters of deep-sea quay, and 550 meters of barge/feeder quay. The Port of Rotterdam Authority (PoR) began constructing the quay walls in the Prinses Amaliahaven in spring 2021, with completion scheduled for mid-2024. The state-of-the-art quay wall incorporates sensors to measure forces exerted by vessels, waves, wind, and other elements, ensuring structural integrity. Additionally, smart bollards will be installed to continuously monitor the safety of moored vessels.
Allard Castelein, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, emphasizes the economic impact of container shipping and the importance of facilitating sustainable growth. By investing in the construction of new quay walls, Rotterdam aims to provide the necessary capacity for container shipping, contributing to the prosperity of the Netherlands and Europe.
Ronald Lugthart, CEO of RWG, highlights that the expansion will enable the terminal to offer reliable, efficient, and flexible services to clients and stakeholders. The carbon-neutral terminal will be achieved through the electrification of terminal equipment and readiness for shore power, while also focusing on further logistics and hinterland connectivity through partnerships and innovative facilities.
Overall, the expansion of the RWG terminal demonstrates the commitment of the Port of Rotterdam and RWG to sustainable growth in container shipping and their role in supporting the economic development of the region.
