The EUROGATE Container Terminal Wilhelmshaven will switch container handling from manual operation to an automated system in the coming years. The corresponding automation project will start in January 2022. Around 150 million euros will be invested in this over the next three years. A first ship berth is to be operated automatically as early as 2024.
Michael Blach, Chairman of the Group Management Board at EUROGATE, said: “In the medium term, we are anticipating significant growth in throughput in Wilhelmshaven, which means that we now have the economic framework for investments in the expansion and modernization of the terminal. But for us it’s about much more than just introducing new technology. We want to develop the ‘CTW 2.0’ – a developed, expanded and high-performance, automated terminal, the effective organization of which is adapted to the new requirements of the company. ”
As part of the automation project, expansion measures on the existing infrastructure will initially be driven forward from January 2022, including the elevation of the eight existing container cranes and the asphalting of unpaved areas in the north of the terminal. The delivery, assembly and commissioning of two further container cranes is planned for 2023.
The future operating model and the appropriate personnel concepts are currently being developed. With the ‘future collective bargaining agreement’ signed between the individual companies of the EUROGATE Group and the service union ver.di, the foundation stone was laid at the end of 2018 for shaping the consequences of the automation process for our employees in a socially and co-determined manner.
Michael Blach continues: “Automation is an unstoppable development in our industry, which we are facing and which we see as an opportunity to significantly increase our customer orientation and our competitiveness. As a result, we gain throughput, secure employment and create new, demanding and future-oriented jobs. ”