The most striking example of innovation and sustainable port development in Rotterdam is Maasvlakte 2. Here you’ll encounter two of the world’s most modern container terminals, where the world’s largest container ships are handled and giant wind turbine foundation piles for new offshore wind farms are assembled. In total, 1,000 hectares will eventually become available for innovative, sustainable, deep sea-related port industry.
The Port of Rotterdam Authority is realising the construction of the Container Exchange Route (CER). The CER will link container companies on Maasvlakte with one another, enabling them to minimise container exchange costs. The CER combines container flows. This means that trains, barges and feeder vessels no longer need to visit all the different terminals. Benefits: improved connectivity, reduced port stays and reduced costs.
In the first years following the commercial opening of Maasvlakte 2, limited traffic volumes led to the decision to construct a single-level junction on Maasvlakteweg near the Prinses Amaliahaven. Various roads converge at this junction, including a single-level railway line, a pipeline corridor and the future Container Exchange Route (CER).
The Port of Rotterdam is creating space for a cluster in which companies involved in offshore activities can work together. 70 hectares of land is being created for this in Prinses Alexiahaven at Maasvlakte 2. The Offshore Center will soon offer space to companies that, for instance, construct foundations for offshore wind turbines or dismantle oil and gas platforms.
A cable connection between the ‘Hollandse Kust (south)’ wind farm and Maasvlakte is being realised by grid operator TenneT. This will enable electricity generated by North Sea wind farms to be brought ashore. The wind farm will soon be generating enough clean electricity to power 1.6 million households.
An extensive and thorough preparation phase preceded the construction of Maasvlakte 2. As one of the most important ports in the world and as Europe’s biggest port, Rotterdam’s contribution to the Dutch economy is significant. Towards the end of the last century, there was almost no space available in the existing port and industrial area for new companies or for existing clients who wanted to expand. More space was needed for Rotterdam’s development and competitive position, which is why the Dutch government took the decision to strengthen Mainport Rotterdam.
The two most up-to-date automatic container terminals in the world, the largest sea-going vessels on earth, giant foundation piles for offshore wind turbines, and a permanent berth for the world’s largest vessel, the Pioneering Spirit, and two berths for ship to ship handling; the developments since the completion of construction in 2013 are impressive.
If you’d like to find out more about the construction and layout of Maasvlakte 2 or other developments in Europe’s most important port, you can visit FutureLand Information Centre. As well as the informative and interactive exhibition, you can also take a boat or bus tour. The year-round programme is for everyone: from families with children to professionals and from international delegations to family excursions or even complete school classes. Last year, FutureLand welcomed its millionth visitor, and in 2019 the information centre will have been operational for ten years.
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