(Commonwealth_ DP World has officially launched operations at the world’s first all-electric berth, a groundbreaking achievement that sets new standards for sustainable port facilities. Located at London Gateway, one of the UK’s most advanced logistics hubs, this eco-friendly berth welcomed its first vessels, including the MSC Sena, a significant step in DP World’s mission to lead in low-carbon port operations. An all-electric fleet of vehicles and equipment, including four of Europe’s largest quay cranes, straddle carriers, and automatic stacking cranes, serves the innovative berth. This infrastructure not only reduces emissions but also establishes a new global benchmark for sustainable logistics and low-carbon shipping facilities.
The new berth at London Gateway, measuring 430 meters, will increase the port’s trading capacity by more than a third. This expansion aims to strengthen customer supply chains by providing enhanced global connectivity, increased reliability, and faster turnaround times. As a key asset within the Thames Freeport, this berth is part of a larger initiative to transform London Gateway into the UK’s largest container port by trading volume over the next five years. This development aligns with DP World’s broader strategy to create a sustainable and interconnected logistics network that spans the globe.
The operational launch of this all-electric berth has also brought economic benefits, adding 200 permanent jobs to London Gateway. These new positions contribute to the development of the Thames Freeport, which serves as a strategic hub for trade and economic growth in the UK. DP World’s investment in the area reflects a long-term commitment to supporting the UK’s economy and reducing the environmental impact of logistics.
Last month, at the UK Government’s International Investment Summit, DP World announced a £1 billion investment to construct a fifth and sixth berth at London Gateway. These new berths will significantly boost the port’s handling capacity, further positioning it as a central node in the UK’s trade and logistics network. DP World’s multi-billion-pound investment in the UK over the last decade has been instrumental in transforming London Gateway into a modern, efficient facility that connects the UK to global supply chains and export markets. The planned berths are expected to handle even larger vessels, including the world’s largest ships currently in service and the future generation of megaships under construction. These infrastructure enhancements will also help DP World progress toward its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Ernst Schulze, DP World’s Chief Executive Officer for Ports & Terminals in the UK, commented on the milestone, saying, “The arrival of the first ship at our new all-electric fourth berth is a huge landmark for DP World’s ambitions in the UK. We have already invested more than £2 billion in the building of our modern and efficient facility at London Gateway in the last decade, connecting the UK with global supply chains and export markets. This new berth, alongside our £1 billion investment in the fifth and sixth berths, will further enable us to service the largest vessels in operation worldwide today, and the larger, future megaships currently under construction, while also advancing our goal to be net-zero by 2050.” Schulze emphasized that DP World’s ongoing investments are creating an integrated suite of supply chain solutions that offer customers a competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving trade environment. These assets, spread across DP World’s UK operations, support the national interest by enhancing the resilience and sustainability of the UK’s trade networks. Beyond London Gateway, DP World’s presence in the UK includes its facilities at Southampton, as well as logistics, forwarding, and European transport capabilities. DP World is integrating these offerings into its global network, offering customers an end-to-end logistics solution that links them to markets across Europe and beyond.
