A successful initial test of new technology on a Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) crane has been completed, marking a significant advancement in DP World’s global strategy to decarbonize its port and terminal operations, reports DP World.
Significant Step
DP World has achieved a significant step in its decarbonization efforts by successfully completing initial testing of its hydrogen fuel cell rubber-tired gantry (RTG) crane at the Port of Vancouver. This RTG is now undergoing field testing as the company evaluates the potential to electrify its extensive global fleet of 1,500 RTG cranes.
RTG cranes, traditionally powered by diesel, are crucial for cargo handling operations in ports but contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. At DP World’s Vancouver terminal alone, the 19 RTG cranes account for a substantial 50% of the terminal’s diesel consumption, resulting in over 4,200 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. The implementation of hydrogen fuel cell technology offers the potential to reduce or even eliminate this environmental impact drastically.
Doug Smith, CEO of DP World in Canada, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability, stating, “As one of the world’s foremost port and terminal operators, we are dedicated to advancing sustainable practices that will drive industry-wide change. This pilot not only marks an important step in DP World’s commitment to decarbonizing its operations, but it also sets a new benchmark in sustainable logistics. Real-world testing ensures our solutions are reliable and effective and could open the door to electrifying our global fleet of RTGs.”
DP World initiated this pilot project in October 2023. The initial phase involved retrofitting an existing diesel-powered RTG crane with an integrated solution. This solution comprises a Hydrogen-Electric Generator (HEG), a battery energy storage system, a hydrogen storage module, a regenerative energy capture system, and integrated control and safety systems. The project has now moved into its second phase, a comprehensive one-year field trial. During this trial, the team will meticulously track key performance indicators such as hydrogen consumption rates, energy generation, and the efficiency of regenerative energy capture.
Thorough Comparison
The data collected during this field trial will be crucial in allowing DP World to conduct a thorough comparison between the zero-emission hydrogen electric RTG and a traditional diesel-powered RTG. This comparison will assess critical factors, including productivity levels, operational reliability, maintenance requirements, overall costs, and the environmental benefits of the hydrogen technology.
DP World collaborated with several key partners for this pioneering project, including TYCROP Manufacturing Ltd., H2 Portable, and HTEC. H2 Portable, in partnership with TYCROP, designed the innovative Hydrogen-Electric Generator (HEG), which utilizes a dual fuel cell system and a battery energy storage system. HTEC was responsible for providing the hydrogen storage system and ensuring the supply of hydrogen for the project.
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Source: DP World
