PSA Antwerp and Port of Antwerp-Bruges have been working together since early last year to renew the Europa Terminal (Q869) under Project Emerald. This ambitious initiative will increase the terminal’s annual handling capacity from 1.7 million TEU to 2.5 million TEU. Once complete, the upgraded terminal will handle ships of up to 25,000 TEU and 400 meters in length, marking a major leap forward for the Port of Antwerp. Beyond boosting capacity, the project reinforces the port’s role as a key player in global trade.
Project Emerald is investing in new equipment as a key part of its strategy. The project will deploy twelve advanced semi-automatic quay cranes with Dual Hoist and OCR technology and add 48 automated, electric stacking cranes (ASCs). Leading terminal operators in Belgium and abroad have already successfully adopted these technologies.
Innovative ASCs enhance sustainability and safety
These ASCs make the Europa Terminal more sustainable and future-proof by increasing efficiency, enhancing storage capacity, and improving safety. Automatic cranes separate humans from machines more effectively, reducing the risk of workplace accidents. By investing in automation, sustainability, and safety, Project Emerald ensures the continued growth of container activities at Q869.
Sustainability initiatives
The project prioritizes sustainability with an ambitious plan to cut CO2 emissions per container by more than 50%. Electrification, greener operations, and innovative solutions like renewable energy, biofuels, hydrogen, and batteries will drive this reduction. The team is also exploring wind turbine installation and shore power to further enhance sustainability.
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
