The Port of New York and New Jersey has announced that the first all-electric straddle carrier in the US will arrive at the port before the end of 2019.
According to a statement, the pilot programme is part of New York and New Jersey’s strategy to meet greenhouse gas reduction targets under the Paris Climate Agreement.
In partnership with the port authority, Maher Terminals has agreed to pilot test the operational and environmental benefits of the all-electric straddle carrier for a year at its Elizabeth Port Authority Marine Terminal.
Dr. Jean-Paul Rodrigue, Hofstra University, discusses ports in a the new manufacturing landscape in a recent Port Technology technical paper
The one-year trial will examine the level of greenhouse gas emissions that can be reduced by the all-electric straddle carrier.
Kevin O’Toole, Port Authority Chairman, commented: “We are proud to take a leadership role in reducing harmful emissions at our facilities to significantly improve air quality throughout the region and particularly in our host communities.
“The electrification of cargo handling equipment is one of many projects that clearly demonstrate our commitment to the agency’s sustainability goals.”
New York and New Jersey Enjoy Record-Breaking June #PTIDaily SEE MORE: https://t.co/Yzg00Ch4UR@PortNYNJ #ports #terminals #throughput pic.twitter.com/xvAKhhMdp2
— Port Technology (PTI) (@PortTechnology) July 26, 2018
Rick Cotton, Port Authority Executive Director, added: “This project signals our strong, unwavering commitment to reduce GHG emissions in the port as we strive to comply with Paris Climate Agreement emission reduction targets.
“Last year, this agency became the first public transportation agency in the country to embrace the agreement, and we will continue to undertake initiatives that will reduce our own carbon footprint.”
At a meeting on October 25, 2018, the port authority’s Board of Commissioners unanimously decided to support the Paris Climate Agreement, declaring its intentions to achieve a 35% reduction in GHG emissions at the Port of New York and New Jersey by 2025.
Other initiatives are ongoing to achieve this target, including a collaboration with port tenants to install automatic engine start-stop systems on terminal tractors, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.