Port of Rotterdam greenlights start-up projects to help it work 'smarter'

The port of Rotterdam is set to launch a series of pilot projects aimed at future-proofing, improving efficiency and sustainability, and at the same time turn itself into a “smart” port.

Agreements with Richtlijn Geodesie, Flower Turbines, Ladar and Planys were signed at last week’s PortXL innovation forum.

The port said: “The port plans to determine with Richtlijn Geodesie the feasibility of a pilot involving installing smart sensors at various quay walls in the port area.

“It will work together with Flower Turbines on a joint study into sustainable, decentralised generation of power in port projects, with these wind turbines easy to fit due to small size.”

With Ladar, it will also be focusing on utilising technology, with lasers it claims that can “increase insight” into movements of recreational shipping traffic.

Finally, its work with Planys will involve a project focusing on safety issues for divers in and around the port.

Alongside these agreements, the port also issued a letter-of-support to Eco Wave Power, which creates floating platforms generating power from waves.

“Eco Wave Power is an innovative company that develops advanced floats that can convert wave motion into power,” said the port.

“The port authority has issued this initiative with a letter of support and will be following the technological progress of this promising scale-up with keen interest.”

Last week, The Loadstar reported the port was backing inland barge terminal operators’ work to consolidate volumes in an effort to address congestion in North Europe. Director of containers, breakbulk & logistics, Emile Hoogsteden said it was “in line” with the communal approach being taken by government and business to address the problem.