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In a significant advancement for sustainable logistics, Inland Terminals Group (ITG) Zero Emission Services (ZES) and Nedcargo have launched a fully emission-free container transport service on inland waterways. The initiative, which commenced with the maiden voyage of the MS Den Bosch Max Groen, employs mobile swappable battery containers to facilitate electric propulsion, eliminating CO2, nitrogen, and particulate emissions. This innovative approach not only marks a pivotal moment for inland shipping but also aligns with broader environmental goals supported by the National Growth Fund and the Province of South Holland.

ZES's unique model allows shipowners to pay for energy consumption on a per-use basis, making the transition to battery-electric sailing more financially feasible. This initiative is complemented by subsidies designed to further encourage adoption among shipowners. Arne Weverling, provincial executive of South Holland, emphasized the initiative's dual purpose: to enhance the health and livability of the province while ensuring that inland shipping remains competitive in an era of increasing road congestion.

The operational launch, connecting Den Bosch to the Port of Rotterdam, is a testament to collaborative efforts with partners such as Heineken and CCT, optimizing the efficiency of battery-powered vessels. With the rollout of ZES 2.0, vessels can now exchange battery containers at multiple locations, including Alphen aan den Rijn, Alblasserdam, and Den Bosch, establishing a robust network that enhances the accessibility of battery-electric inland shipping. Plans for additional terminals in Rotterdam, Moerdijk, and Nijmegen will only strengthen this infrastructure.

As Eduard Backer noted, shippers can drastically reduce their scope 3 emissions by opting for waterborne transport, which is increasingly recognized as a path toward a lower environmental footprint. The partnership also highlights the versatility of hydrogen-powered vessels for longer distances, while battery containers are particularly suited for shorter shuttle services. With the impending CO2 levy under ETS 2, financial incentives for shippers adopting these sustainable transport options are poised to grow.

Piet Hein Timp, procurement manager for sustainability and energy at Heineken, expressed strong support for the development of battery-electric transport. He highlighted the collaboration between ITG, ZES, and Nedcargo as a model for decarbonizing supply chains, urging other shippers to consider this sustainable alternative. The launch of this service not only represents a milestone in sustainable logistics but also sets a precedent for future innovations in the sector.