Rotterdam Offers Discounted Port Fees to Pioneers Embracing Future Sustainable Fuels

The Port of Rotterdam has announced that it will offer a significant reduction in port fees for ships that use sustainable fuels, such as methanol and ammonia. This move is part of the port’s efforts to support the early adoption of green fuels and promote the use of alternative energy sources in the shipping industry. To qualify for the fee reduction, ships must bunker alternative fuels in Rotterdam and achieve at least a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The discount can amount to up to €500,000 for large container vessels. However, the reduction will not apply to bio-blended fuel oil, marine gas oil, or marine diesel oil, as these alternatives are already well-established in Rotterdam.

The fee reduction initiative is being launched in conjunction with the recently announced Zero Emissions Maritime Buyers Alliance (ZEMBA). ZEMBA is an initiative of coZEV and has received commitments from major consumer brands like Amazon, Electrolux, Ikea, and Philips. The alliance aims to transport 600,000 containers on ocean-going vessels powered by zero-emissions fuels. The Port of Rotterdam plans to recognize and encourage these front runners in maritime decarbonization by providing additional support and incentives.

The Port of Rotterdam is already a leading bunkering port and offers discounts to more sustainable vessels based on their Environmental Ship Index (ESI) scores. Methanol bunkering is already available in Rotterdam, and efforts are being made to expand the supply. Maersk is currently bunkering their first methanol-fueled containership in Rotterdam, and supplier OCI has signed a long-term supply agreement to provide methanol to X-Press Feeders’ ships. The port is also collaborating with the Maritime Port Authority of Singapore on the Green & Digital Corridor project, which offers similar discounts and incentives for carriers using sustainable fuels. The partners in this project aim to reduce emissions by 20-30% by 2030 and are working on identifying action steps for decarbonization fuel pathways.

Source .