Table of Contents
- Executive Summary: Jetty Automation’s Rising Tide
- Market Size, Growth, and 2025–2029 Forecasts
- Key Players and Strategic Partnerships (incl. ABB, Siemens, Kalmar, Cavotec)
- Breakthrough Technologies Powering Jetty Automation
- Integration with Smart Port Infrastructure and IoT
- Current and Emerging Applications Across Industries
- Regulatory Environment and Industry Standards (PIANC, IEC, IMO)
- Sustainability, Safety, and Environmental Impact
- Challenges, Risks, and Barriers to Adoption
- Future Trends: What’s Next for Jetty Automation Systems?
- Sources & References
Executive Summary: Jetty Automation's Rising Tide
Jetty automation systems are rapidly reshaping operational paradigms at ports, terminals, and energy infrastructure worldwide. As of 2025, the deployment of advanced automation is accelerating, driven by the dual imperatives of efficiency and safety. Major industry players, including Siemens, Honeywell, and Emerson, are pioneering comprehensive control and monitoring platforms for jetties handling oil, gas, and bulk materials. These solutions integrate real-time sensors, automated mooring, loading arms, and emergency shutdown systems, creating interconnected environments that minimize human intervention and operational risk.
Recent years have witnessed a surge in orders for turnkey jetty automation projects, largely propelled by tightening safety regulations and the need for continuous, remote-controlled operations. In 2024 and early 2025, several liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals and chemical ports in Asia and the Middle East commissioned new automation projects, with companies such as Honeywell and Siemens announcing contracts to retrofit legacy assets with advanced jetty control and supervision technology. The demand is particularly robust in regions investing in LNG infrastructure expansion, where automation is critical for both operational reliability and compliance.
Data from industry sources indicates that by 2025, over 40% of newly built oil and gas jetties globally are being equipped with some level of automation, a figure that is expected to surpass 60% by 2028 as digitalization strategies mature and costs decrease. The adoption of digital twins, predictive maintenance, and cyber-secure remote control systems is also forecast to expand, with leading providers like Emerson integrating these features into next-generation offerings.
Looking ahead, the outlook for jetty automation systems remains robust. The sector is poised for continued growth, underpinned by a pipeline of terminal expansion projects and a global emphasis on safer, more sustainable port operations. Automation is increasingly recognized not only as a means to cut costs and reduce downtime, but as a critical enabler for decarbonization—supporting electrification, emissions monitoring, and integration with alternative fuel supply chains. As 2025 progresses and new international standards come into force, stakeholders across shipping, energy, and bulk handling are expected to deepen investments in agile, scalable jetty automation solutions from established technology providers.
Market Size, Growth, and 2025–2029 Forecasts
The market for jetty automation systems is poised for notable growth during the 2025–2029 period, driven by intensifying digitalization initiatives in port infrastructure, rising throughput at bulk liquid and LNG terminals, and the global emphasis on operational safety and efficiency. Jetty automation encompasses integrated control systems for loading arms, mooring, safety interlocks, and communications, enabling faster vessel turnaround and reduced human intervention at marine terminals.
In 2025, the jetty automation sector is estimated to be valued in the low single-digit billions USD, with leading suppliers including Emerson Electric Co., ABB Ltd, and Siemens AG. These companies have reported robust order books from expansion projects at major energy export hubs and greenfield LNG terminals. For instance, Emerson Electric Co. has referenced growth in demand for their terminal automation solutions, which include jetty and berth management systems, across regions such as the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Similarly, ABB Ltd has highlighted the deployment of digital control and safety systems at new liquid bulk facilities in Europe and Asia, emphasizing automation’s role in meeting strict environmental and safety regulations.
Key drivers propelling market expansion include increased global energy trade, stricter safety standards from bodies like the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and the integration of Industry 4.0 technologies (such as remote monitoring, AI-enabled predictive maintenance, and cybersecurity features) into terminal operations. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to dominate new installations, with substantial investments in China, India, and Southeast Asia, where governments and private operators are modernizing port infrastructure to accommodate larger vessels and higher cargo volumes.
From 2025 through 2029, industry consensus and project pipelines suggest a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in the mid-to-high single digit percentage range for jetty automation systems. This is underpinned by a wave of terminal upgrades, retrofits, and new builds, especially in LNG, chemicals, and oil product sectors. Companies like Siemens AG and Emerson Electric Co. are also developing modular, scalable automation solutions to address the needs of both large-scale and mid-sized terminals.
- 2025: Market value in low single-digit billions USD, robust order intake reported by leading vendors.
- 2025–2029: CAGR expected in mid-to-high single digit percentage range.
- Asia-Pacific leads in new investments; Europe and Middle East focus on upgrades and compliance.
- Outlook: Increasing digitalization, regulatory compliance, and efficiency pressures drive sustained growth.
Key Players and Strategic Partnerships (incl. ABB, Siemens, Kalmar, Cavotec)
The jetty automation systems market in 2025 is witnessing dynamic advancement, propelled by the efforts of leading industrial technology companies and a growing trend towards strategic alliances. Key players such as ABB, Siemens, Kalmar, and Cavotec are at the forefront, leveraging their expertise in automation, electrification, and digitalization to enhance port and jetty operations.
Recent developments highlight the increasing complexity and integration of jetty automation. ABB continues to deliver automation and safety systems for liquid bulk terminals and LNG jetties, focusing on digitalized control for loading arms, safety interlocks, and real-time monitoring. In 2025, the company is expanding its portfolio with modular, scalable solutions that integrate seamlessly with terminal management systems, aiming to reduce human intervention and improve safety.
Siemens is driving innovation in jetty automation through its digitalization platforms and electrification technologies. Its automation solutions are being adopted in new and retrofit projects worldwide, with a focus on improving operational efficiency and ensuring compliance with evolving environmental and safety regulations. Siemens’ partnerships with major terminal operators enable the deployment of its SIMATIC systems in large-scale bulk and container terminals, reinforcing its market position.
Meanwhile, Kalmar—renowned for container handling and cargo automation—has expanded its offering to include automated mooring and remote-controlled equipment for jetties. Kalmar’s ongoing collaborations with port authorities and technology providers aim to deploy fully automated mooring systems, which are expected to become increasingly prevalent by 2027 as ports pursue higher throughput and reduced turnaround times.
Cavotec distinguishes itself with its MoorMaster automated mooring systems and integrated shore power solutions. In 2025, Cavotec is actively scaling up its partnerships with major ports in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, focusing on electrification and emission reduction. The company’s recent agreements to supply automation systems to LNG, container, and ferry jetties demonstrate the sector’s shift towards sustainability and operational resilience.
Strategic partnerships between these players and stakeholders—including terminal operators, energy companies, and equipment suppliers—are accelerating the adoption of jetty automation. Joint ventures and technology-sharing agreements are expected to increase, supporting the integration of artificial intelligence, IoT, and advanced robotics in jetty operations over the next few years. These collaborations are poised to drive further standardization, interoperability, and digital transformation in the global port sector.
Breakthrough Technologies Powering Jetty Automation
In 2025, jetty automation systems are undergoing significant transformation, driven by advancements in digitalization, sensor integration, and real-time control solutions. These technologies are designed to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability at marine terminals handling bulk liquids, LNG, and other cargoes. The convergence of industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), high-precision robotics, and artificial intelligence is at the forefront of this evolution, promising unprecedented levels of automation and remote operability.
One key breakthrough is the deployment of integrated jetty management platforms that combine loading arms, safety systems, mooring equipment, and environmental monitoring into unified, remotely accessible interfaces. Leading manufacturers such as Emerson Electric Co. and Sener are now offering systems capable of real-time diagnostics and predictive maintenance, reducing unplanned downtime and human intervention. These platforms leverage robust sensor networks and advanced analytics to deliver actionable insights, supporting safer and more reliable transfer operations.
Another area of rapid progress is automated mooring technology. Companies like Trelleborg AB have introduced vacuum and magnetic mooring systems that allow ships to dock and undock with minimal manual input. Such systems increase throughput by minimizing berth occupancy times and enhancing safety during harsh weather or tidal conditions. In parallel, remote-controlled loading arms equipped with smart actuators and emergency quick-release mechanisms are being adopted, enabling operators to manage cargo transfers with high precision even from centralized control rooms.
Digital twin technology is also reshaping jetty operations. By creating virtual replicas of jetty assets and their operational states, companies can simulate scenarios, optimize workflows, and preemptively address maintenance needs. ABB Ltd. is pioneering digital twin implementations for marine terminals, allowing for dynamic risk assessment and continuous process optimization.
Looking ahead, the adoption of 5G connectivity and edge computing is expected to further empower jetty automation. These technologies will enable near-instantaneous data exchange between devices and control centers, laying the groundwork for autonomous berthing and cargo handling processes. As regulatory bodies push for decarbonization and enhanced safety in port operations, the integration of breakthrough automation technologies is set to accelerate, with widespread deployment anticipated across major global terminals by the late 2020s.
Integration with Smart Port Infrastructure and IoT
The integration of jetty automation systems with smart port infrastructure and the Internet of Things (IoT) is rapidly transforming port operations in 2025. Ports worldwide are intensifying efforts to digitize and automate processes at jetties—critical interfaces between maritime and landside logistics—to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and environmental performance.
Modern jetty automation systems encompass remote-controlled mooring, automated gangways, real-time berth management, and environmental monitoring—all orchestrated through interconnected IoT devices. These systems are increasingly being integrated with broader smart port platforms, which aggregate data from terminal operating systems, vessel traffic management, and port community systems. The resulting data-rich environment enables predictive maintenance, just-in-time vessel arrivals, and optimized cargo flows.
Recent deployments highlight the momentum: At several major European and Asian ports, companies such as ABB have delivered automated mooring and shore connection solutions that are fully integrated into port digital ecosystems. These systems leverage IoT sensors and cloud connectivity to provide real-time data on jetty usage, equipment status, and environmental parameters. Similarly, Konecranes offers automated mooring units and remote monitoring services, supporting integration with smart infrastructure for improved berth turnaround times and safety.
IoT-driven jetty automation also supports sustainability goals. For example, energy consumption and emissions from vessels at berth are minimized through automated connection to shore power and monitoring, a solution promoted by Cavotec in cooperation with port authorities. Environmental sensors track water and air quality around the jetty in real-time, feeding into wider port environmental management systems for proactive response.
Industry bodies such as the International Association of Ports and Harbors have underscored the necessity of interoperability standards, ensuring that jetty automation components can seamlessly exchange data with other smart port systems. In 2025, emphasis is also placed on cybersecurity, as the proliferation of connected devices creates new vulnerabilities requiring robust protection measures.
Looking ahead through the next few years, the outlook for integrated jetty automation is strong: Ports are expected to accelerate investments as tangible benefits—such as reduced berth occupancy, improved safety records, and lower emissions—are demonstrated. Collaborative projects between equipment manufacturers, software providers, and port authorities are set to proliferate, driving further innovation and standardization in the sector.
Current and Emerging Applications Across Industries
Jetty automation systems are rapidly transforming port and terminal operations, integrating advanced technologies such as IoT, AI, robotics, and digital twins to optimize vessel berthing, cargo handling, and safety protocols. In 2025, the deployment of automated jetty solutions is accelerating, driven by demands for greater operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability across multiple industries—most notably oil & gas, chemicals, bulk cargo, and container shipping.
A key trend is the adoption of integrated jetty management platforms that automate mooring, loading arms, gangways, and safety systems. Companies like Emerson Electric Co. and Honeywell International Inc. are providing digital control systems capable of real-time monitoring and remote operation of jetty equipment, enabling safer and more efficient handling of hazardous materials. For instance, automated emergency shutdown systems and leak detection are now standard in new liquid bulk terminals, reducing response times and minimizing risk.
The oil and LNG sectors remain at the forefront of jetty automation. Recent projects in the Middle East and Asia have showcased automated mooring systems (AMS) and remote-controlled loading arms, reducing manual intervention and turnaround times. Konecranes and Trelleborg AB are actively deploying such solutions, with Trelleborg’s SmartPort platform integrating sensor data for predictive maintenance and operational analytics. This approach not only supports safer operations but also aligns with industry sustainability initiatives by optimizing resource use and reducing emissions.
Chemical and bulk cargo terminals are increasingly implementing jetty automation to comply with stricter environmental and safety regulations. Automated sampling, seal control, and vapor recovery systems are being deployed to minimize human exposure and environmental impact. For example, ABB Ltd. is supporting terminals with end-to-end automation solutions that cover ship-to-shore connectivity, logistics, and energy management.
Looking ahead, the next few years will see even broader adoption of AI-driven predictive analytics and digital twin technology in jetty automation. This will enable terminals to simulate operations, anticipate maintenance needs, and optimize berth allocation dynamically. As global supply chains demand higher throughput and resilience, industries are expected to invest further in scalable, interoperable automation platforms. The convergence of operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) at the jetty will be a defining feature of the sector’s evolution through the latter half of the 2020s.
Regulatory Environment and Industry Standards (PIANC, IEC, IMO)
The regulatory environment and industry standards for jetty automation systems are evolving rapidly as ports and terminals worldwide accelerate the adoption of digital and automated technologies. The year 2025 marks an inflection point, with several key organizations shaping the framework for both safety and interoperability in jetty automation.
The PIANC (Permanent International Association of Navigation Congresses) continues to play a central role in developing guidelines for the design and operation of marine terminals, with recent working groups focusing on the integration of digital systems and automated equipment. PIANC’s work on smart port infrastructure and guidelines for automated mooring systems is increasingly referenced in technical specifications and procurement processes, supporting harmonization across global projects.
At the international level, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) remains the principal regulatory body overseeing maritime safety and environmental performance. In 2025, IMO’s agenda includes ongoing updates to the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, both of which now recognize the role of automation and digital control systems in enhancing jetty operations and security. The IMO has also emphasized the importance of cybersecurity measures for automated and remotely controlled infrastructure, and is actively updating guidelines to address emerging risks associated with these technologies.
Electrical and communication standards are increasingly defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), which is revising and expanding standards such as IEC 61850 for substation automation and IEC 62443 for industrial cybersecurity. These standards are being adapted to cover marine terminal automation systems, including automated mooring, loading arms, and remote monitoring solutions. In 2025, IEC working groups are collaborating with industry stakeholders to ensure that automation components and control networks at jetties meet rigorous requirements for safety, reliability, and secure data communication.
Looking ahead, the regulatory and standards landscape is expected to become more stringent, with a growing emphasis on real-time data exchange, system interoperability, and resilience against cyber threats. Collaboration between PIANC, IEC, and IMO is anticipated to yield comprehensive frameworks that will underpin safe adoption of jetty automation worldwide. Industry adoption of these standards is further driven by suppliers and integrators such as ABB and Siemens, which design automation solutions in accordance with the latest regulatory requirements and international standards.
Sustainability, Safety, and Environmental Impact
Jetty automation systems are rapidly advancing, bringing a significant transformation to sustainability, safety, and environmental impact across port operations in 2025 and the coming years. As global ports face increasing regulatory pressures to decarbonize and improve operational safety, automation technologies are being deployed to address these critical challenges.
One of the core sustainability benefits of jetty automation lies in energy optimization and emissions reduction. Automated systems streamline berthing, mooring, and cargo transfer processes, minimizing idle times for vessels and reducing fuel consumption at berth. Companies such as ABB and Siemens are implementing integrated automation solutions that enable shore power connections and real-time energy management, supporting ports in achieving lower greenhouse gas emissions. For instance, automated shore-to-ship power (cold ironing) and digital monitoring can cut emissions from docked vessels by over 90%, contributing to compliance with IMO’s 2030 and 2050 decarbonization targets.
Safety is another area where jetty automation systems are generating measurable improvements. Automation reduces the need for manual intervention in hazardous jetty operations, such as mooring and cargo handling, thereby lowering risk exposure for personnel. Advanced automated mooring systems, like those developed by Trelleborg, use vacuum or magnetic technologies to secure vessels quickly and safely, decreasing the likelihood of accidents and injuries. Real-time monitoring and control systems further enhance situational awareness, allowing rapid response to potential hazards and supporting compliance with maritime safety standards.
From an environmental perspective, jetty automation supports stricter spill prevention measures and faster incident response. Automated valve control, leak detection, and emergency shut-down systems can immediately isolate sections of a jetty in the event of a spill, significantly reducing the risk of environmental contamination. Companies such as Emerson are integrating smart sensors and AI-driven analytics to provide predictive maintenance and environmental monitoring, ensuring ongoing compliance with international standards such as MARPOL and ISO 14001.
Looking ahead, the outlook for jetty automation systems in 2025 and beyond includes broader adoption of digital twins, AI-based optimization, and remote operation technologies. These advances are expected to further enhance sustainability, safety, and environmental stewardship, positioning automated jetties as critical infrastructure in the transition to smarter, greener ports worldwide.
Challenges, Risks, and Barriers to Adoption
Jetty automation systems are gaining momentum in global ports as operators seek to enhance safety, improve operational efficiency, and reduce human error. However, their widespread adoption faces significant challenges, risks, and barriers—particularly as the industry transitions in 2025 and the coming years.
One of the primary challenges is the integration of automation technologies into existing infrastructure. Many jetties were designed decades ago and lack the digital backbone required for seamless interoperability of automated mooring, loading arms, and safety systems. Retrofitting is not only technically complex but also costly, often requiring prolonged downtime that directly impacts port throughput and revenue. Leading suppliers such as Konecranes and Royal IHC have highlighted the need for modular, scalable solutions to minimize disruption and future-proof investments.
Cybersecurity is a growing risk as jetty automation increases reliance on networked control systems. Ports are tempting targets for cyber-attacks, with automation potentially introducing new vulnerabilities. The International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) has underscored the importance of robust cybersecurity protocols, data encryption, and real-time monitoring to safeguard critical infrastructure and prevent operational disruptions.
Operational safety and regulatory compliance present additional barriers. Automated systems must interface with diverse vessel types and variable environmental conditions, demanding sophisticated sensor fusion and fail-safe mechanisms. Certification and standardization remain fragmented internationally, with regulatory frameworks still evolving to keep pace with technological advances. This uncertainty can slow procurement and deployment decisions as port authorities await clearer guidance from bodies such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Workforce adaptation is a further concern. While automation promises to reduce manual intervention, it also necessitates reskilling for operators and maintenance personnel. The transition raises fears of job loss and resistance from labor unions, potentially sparking industrial action and complicating project rollouts. Companies like ABB are investing in training programs and collaborative automation models to address this, fostering acceptance and ensuring operational continuity.
Looking ahead to the next few years, overcoming these challenges will require coordinated industry efforts, investment in digital infrastructure, stronger regulatory alignment, and stakeholder engagement. The trajectory of jetty automation adoption in 2025 and beyond will hinge on balancing technological innovation with robust risk mitigation and inclusive workforce strategies.
Future Trends: What’s Next for Jetty Automation Systems?
The future landscape of jetty automation systems is primed for significant transformation as ports and terminals seek to maximize efficiency, safety, and sustainability. In 2025 and the coming years, several pivotal trends are set to drive innovation in this sector.
A major development is the rapid deployment of fully automated mooring systems. Leading manufacturers and ports are increasingly integrating technologies such as vacuum-based and magnetic mooring solutions to reduce vessel turnaround times and enhance operational safety. For instance, Cavotec has been at the forefront, deploying automated mooring at major global ports and reporting reduced emissions and improved throughput. Similarly, Trelleborg continues to expand its SmartPort portfolio, with advanced automated mooring and monitoring systems now being implemented in new and retrofitted jetties globally.
Another key trend is the integration of digitalization and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies. By 2025, jetty automation systems are increasingly leveraging real-time data analytics, remote diagnostics, and predictive maintenance. These features enable operators to monitor conditions such as fender pressures, bollard loads, and environmental parameters, contributing to proactive asset management and reduced downtime. Companies like Siemens are pushing the envelope by embedding digital twins and advanced control systems into port infrastructure, allowing for simulation and optimization of jetty operations before real-world deployment.
In addition, the push for decarbonization is shaping the next generation of jetty automation. Automated shore power connection systems, which facilitate rapid and safe plug-in of vessels to onshore electrical grids, are being widely adopted to minimize emissions during berthing. Cavotec and ABB are both supplying automated shore power and charging solutions, which are becoming standard in new terminal developments and retrofits worldwide.
Looking ahead, the outlook for jetty automation is buoyed by increasing regulatory requirements for safety, environmental compliance, and digitalization. The convergence of AI-driven decision support, robotics, and connected systems is expected to create self-optimizing jetties capable of autonomous operation, predictive risk management, and seamless integration with terminal and vessel systems. As industry leaders continue to invest in R&D, the next few years will likely see even greater automation, underpinned by robust cybersecurity and interoperability standards, fundamentally reshaping how global ports and terminals operate.
