Study on the realisation of shore-side electricity in Flemish Seaports

Möbius was commissioned by the Flemish government to study the feasibility and implementation of shore-side power in Flemish seaports.

The Government of Flanders faces the challenge of meeting its climate targets and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The implementation of shore-side electricity in Flemish seaports is crucial in this regard, as it allows ships to switch from their diesel generators to an electric supply from land, significantly reducing emissions. Such initiatives are supported and mandated by the European Union through regulations and grant programmes.

The purpose of this 2023 study was to investigate the feasibility and best methods for implementing shore-side electricity facilities in Flanders’s main seaports. This includes a review of technical solutions, funding models, possible instruments, and legal implications. Möbius conducted this study for the Department of Mobility and Public Works, working closely with Equator Lawyers.

Möbius delivered a very thorough and well-founded report in a very short time. Besides being highly professional, their approach was also very flexible and the consultants were always ready to further investigate additional questions.

Herlinde Smet Policy advisor sustainable ports - Department Mobility and Public Works

Approach: Develop strategies for implementing shore-side electricity facilities

To gain insight into the financial aspect, Möbius developed a business case with a financial model that identified energy prices, investment needs, and operational costs. This model thus also established the necessary margin to be generated when selling shore-side electricity to docked vessels.

Discussions were also held with the Flemish seaports to gain insight into their ambitions and to jointly explore how they see the realisation and roll-out of shore-side electricity, including practical implications, competitive positions, and actors involved. These discussions were essential to formulate a solid and well-supported opinion for the relevant minister.

Scenarios for the realisation of shore-side electricity in Flanders

The study resulted in several scenarios that were reported to Lydia Peeters, Flemish Minister of Mobility and Public Works. These scenarios include setting up one or more Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), financing through traditional subsidy mechanisms, and organising through a traditional public contract.

The successful implementation of shore-side electricity in Flemish seaports will help reduce CO₂ emissions, improve air quality around ports, and strengthen Flanders’s position as a leader in sustainable port operations within Europe. This project can serve as an example for similar initiatives worldwide.

Written by

Steven Bauwens

Steven Bauwens

Laura Vanhee

Contact us

We help to address the most urgent business challenges with our flexible approach. Our consultants focus on straight impact and maximum efficiency in co-creation with you.