Mitsui E&S, a multidiscipline engineering company based in Japan, has commenced a demonstration of cargo handling equipment powered by hydrogen fuel cells at Yokohama Port.
The company has replaced the traditional diesel engine generator in one of its near-zero-emission Rubber Tired Gantry Cranes (RTG) with a hydrogen fuel cell power pack.
This RTG, delivered to Utoc, is part of an “on-site demonstration project for cargo handling equipment powered by hydrogen fuel” at the Minami-Honmoku Pier Container Terminal.
The retrofit of the RTG marks a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions in port operations and supporting the achievement of carbon neutrality, said the firm. By utilising hydrogen fuel, this cargo handling machine operates as a zero-emission unit, contributing to lower CO₂ emissions at ports.
Mitsui E&S has been focused on developing hydrogen fuel-based cargo handling solutions for several years. The company’s efforts aim to reduce the environmental impact of port operations through innovative equipment and services.
The company said that it remains committed to advancing technology in support of a safe, efficient, and carbon-neutral society while promoting sustainability in its operations.
The near-zero emission RTG model used in this project includes a larger lithium-ion battery compared to current hybrid models, allowing for easier conversion to zero-emission operation once hydrogen supply infrastructure is established. This type of crane, which moves on tires without requiring ground rails, is ideal for flexible port operations.
