Congo Terminal Môle Est – the first 100 per cent electric port project in the Republic of the Congo
Congo Terminal, a subsidiary of AGL, is continuing construction work on a new port facility at Môle Est. This project aims to support the growth in cargo volumes handled at the port of Pointe-Noire. Once operational, the terminal will become the Republic of Congo’s first port facility to be operated exclusively using electric handling equipment. It forms part of AGL’s overall investment plan totalling one billion euros for the period 2009–2027.
Môle Est will house the majority of the project’s new-generation electric equipment. The aim is to phase out the use of handling equipment powered by internal combustion engines and to deliver improved performance through faster, quieter and more environmentally friendly handling operations. Upon launch, the terminal will be equipped with 5 electric ship-to-shore (STS) cranes, 15 electric rubber-tyred gantry (e-RTG) cranes and 30 electric harbour tractors (e-TT). Autonomous energy management systems will enable real-time monitoring of energy consumption.
“This project draws on AGL’s expertise in managing port terminals around the world. With the Môle Est, we are putting this international know-how at the service of the Congo to develop infrastructure that meets the latest standards whilst optimising environmental performance,” explains Anthony SAMZUN, Managing Director of Congo Terminal.
The commissioning of a fully electrified terminal represents a significant strategic development for the Congo and the entire sub-region. This technological choice is aimed, in particular, at reducing direct emissions associated with cargo handling operations compared with equivalent combustion-engine equipment and helps to reduce the carbon footprint of maritime transport and logistics at a time when shipowners and shippers are seeking to reduce their indirect emissions. It enhances Pointe-Noire’s appeal by offering more reliable and efficient cargo handling. It also positions the Congo as a pioneer in the port energy transition in Central Africa. This technological lead strengthens regional competitiveness by securing the supply chains of landlocked countries that rely on the port of Pointe-Noire for their trade with the rest of the world.
The Môle Est project is expected to generate 900 additional direct and indirect jobs in operations, the maintenance of electrical equipment and related logistics roles. It will also increase the handling capacity of the port of Pointe-Noire to 2.5 million TEUs, thereby strengthening its position as a major maritime gateway for the sub-region.
About Congo Terminal:
Congo Terminal, a subsidiary of AGL (Africa Global Logistics), is the exclusive operator of cargo handling activities for container ships and roll-on/roll-off vessels calling at the port of Pointe Noire. The company is involved in a public-private partnership that enables it to meet the requirements of its clients, including shipowners, importers and exporters. Through its numerous investments, Congo Terminal is helping to improve purchasing power and is actively contributing to the fight against the high cost of living. Certified to ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, ISPS (security), Pedestrian Free Yard (HSE) and Green Terminal, the company utilises state-of-the-art equipment and technology, including the Navis 4 operating system. Congo Terminal has exceeded the threshold of 1,000,000 TEUs handled per year since 2022 and employs nearly 900 Congolese staff. The company carries out charitable initiatives in support of young people, environmental protection and education.
