Project Emerald – redevelopment of the Europa Terminal in Antwerp
PSA Antwerp and Port of Antwerp-Bruges have been working together since the beginning of last year on the renewal of the Europa Terminal (Q869) under the name Project Emerald. This large-scale initiative will increase the terminal's annual handling capacity from 1.7 million TEU to 2.5 million TEU. Upon completion of the project, the terminal will be able to accommodate ships of up to 25,000 TEU and 400 meters in length, marking a significant step forward for Port of Antwerp.
One of the key components of Project Emerald is the investment in new equipment. The project includes the installation of twelve advanced semi-automatic quay cranes equipped with Dual Hoist and OCR technology. Additionally, 48 automated and electric stacking cranes (ASCs) will be added. These technologies have already been successfully implemented by other leading terminal operators both domestically and internationally.
Innovative ASCs enhance sustainability and safety
These ASCs make the Europa Terminal sustainable and future-proof. They increase efficiency, enhance storage capacity, and improve safety. Automatic cranes provide better human-machine separation, thereby reducing the risk of workplace accidents. By investing in automation, sustainability, and safety, the growth of container activities at Q869 is guaranteed.
Sustainability initiatives
Sustainability is central to the project. An ambitious plan has been developed to reduce CO2 emissions per container by more than 50%. This reduction will be achieved through electrification, the greening of operational processes, and exploring green solutions such as renewable energy, biofuels, hydrogen, and batteries. The installation of wind turbines and the provision of shore power are also possibilities being considered.
Phasing and timeline of the project
Project Emerald will be executed in three phases. The first phase includes quay works, followed by the installation of the 9 ASC modules and 5 new quay cranes. The first phase will be completed in the second half of 2026, with a total project duration of nine years for the full redevelopment. Upon completion, the terminal will be able to simultaneously receive two modern mega-ships. This demonstrates PSA Antwerp's commitment to future growth and sustainability at Port of Antwerp.
Collaboration with Camco Technologies
The collaboration with Camco Technologies plays an important role in the project. Camco will install advanced BoxCatcher systems on the new cranes and implement new OCR portals and height & width restriction portals in the gate area. Additionally, Camco will automate the Landside Transfer Points at the new ASC stacks in a safe and efficient manner.
Future vision and strategic importance
With these large-scale infrastructure improvements, PSA Antwerp reaffirms its confidence in the long-term prospects of the port and its strategic role in global trade.
Sources: PSA Antwerp – Port of Antwerp – Camco Technologies