The supply and distribution of energy is one of the key strongholds of Rotterdam. The port has become an international centre for the trade in and distribution of various energy sources (oil, gas, coal). One of the port’s main policies is to strengthen this leading position by among other things, strongly focusing on the production of energy, including the use of renewable sources (LNG, biomass, wind). Rotterdam aspires to become Europe’s energyport to provide northwestern Europe continuously and reliably with affordable and sustainable energy.
The (petro)chemical cluster in the port is based on the output of four refineries. In addition, many chemical multinationals have established themselves in Rotterdam. Companies in the (petro)chemical industry work closely together; one company’s end product or by-product is often another company’s raw material. Underneath the port and industrial complex, there is a pipeline network of about 1,500 kilometres.
Utilities such as steam and industrial gases are widely available in the port. A new activity is LNG (liquid natural gas). Again, Rotterdam has developed into a European hub. In the harbor several LNG terminals are in preparation. After regasificatie of LNG on the terminals the gas travels through underground pipelines to end users in the port and the European hinterland.
Partly based on the widespread availability of natural gas and coal, Rotterdam is home to several power plants.
(Petro)chemical companies are increasingly flocking together on shared industrial sites. This allows for even more efficient forms of cooperation like the common use of raw materials, utilities and facilities. Many competitive co-generating facilities supply the oil and chemical industry with steam and power.
The Port of Rotterdam Authority actively promotes this co-siting principle.
The many ships that call at the port each year – combined with the extensive maritime and technical knowledge that is available in the region – make Rotterdam a natural place of business for shipbuilders, ship repair and a wide range of maritime suppliers. Rotterdam offers specialized facilities and services for the offshore. The often huge offshore objects can use separate berths in the port with a deep draft.
Rotterdam has numerous facilities for the processing of agricultural products. The region also accommodates a number of renowned agricultural trading houses and service providers for storage, quality checks, etc.
To ensure a sustainable future the production of biofuels - such as biodiesel and bioethanol – in Europe is increasingly important. As the European energy port Rotterdam is a leader in accommodating this industry that can fully benefit from the existing (petro) chemical cluster.
