In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable energy solutions, Shell Marine has launched a novel megawatt charging station designed to service both land-based and ocean-going battery-electric vehicles. The brand has dubbed the “Megawatt Charging System,” this new DCFC (Direct Current Fast Charging) station represents a significant leap forward in promoting a unified charging infrastructure for a wide range of vehicle classes at busy ports.
The Megawatt Charging System is equipped with two unique boom arms—one tailored for trucks and the other for boats. Shell hopes this innovative design aims to reduce the costs associated with adding chargers for vessel operators by promoting a single, common charging system standard. By enabling trucks, material handlers, and seagoing vessels to utilize the same infrastructure, Shell hopes to minimize the need for duplicate investments in charging infrastructure.
Shell Marine President Melissa Williams explained, “We believe this solution will be helpful for shipping companies that control and operate logistics businesses across the supply chain,” These companies often have facilities that serve both water side and landside, and this system offers a seamless solution for their diverse needs.”
Hilmar van den Dool, General Manager eMobility at Shell, emphasized the forward-thinking nature of this investment. “There are not that many electric trucks and vessels yet, so with this we’re investing ahead of the market that is growing quickly,” he said. “It is in line with our ambition to provide more and cleaner energy solutions.”
The launched sea/land DCFC station was installed at the Energy Transition Campus Amsterdam (ETCA), Shell’s electric innovation center in the Netherlands. This site also features a variety of renewable infrastructure demonstrators, including battery-powered EV chargers and a hydrogen electrolyzer. Shell intends to roll out additional examples of its new sea/land charging solution at other sites, furthering its commitment to sustainable energy and efficient logistics.
Also the megawatt charging standard, developed in collaboration with Scania and ABB, is designed to support high-power charging needs; it ensurs that both trucks and vessels can quickly and efficiently recharge. This initiative underscores Shell’s dedication to advancing cleaner energy technologies and fostering a more sustainable future for global transportation networks.
The launch of the Megawatt Charging System by Shell Marine marks a significant milestone in companies efforts to support the transition to electric mobility. By providing a versatile and efficient charging solution for both land and sea vehicles, Shell is paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future in logistics and transportation.