World’s First Hydrogen Fuel Cell RTG Crane Unveiled At Port Of Los Angeles

PACECO Corp. and MITSUI E&S have unveiled the world’s first hydrogen fuel cell-powered rubber-tired gantry (RTG) crane at the Port of Los Angeles.

It is known as the H2-ZE RTG Transtainer Crane, which began commercial operations at Yusen Terminals Inc. on May 15, 2024.

The H2-ZE RTG Transtainer Crane, developed in collaboration between PACECO and MITSUI E&S, is powered by fuel-cell hydrogen technology, setting a new standard for emissions-free terminal operations.

Unlike traditional diesel-powered cranes, this unique technology can achieve zero emissions without relying on the electric grid.

MITSUI E&S in Oita, Japan, invented the fuel-cell power pack (FCPP), which substitutes traditional diesel gensets and provides efficient and clean power to the crane.

Toyota Tsusho supplies hydrogen for the project, highlighting the joint effort that is propelling it.

A typical diesel-powered RTG crane produces carbon dioxide equivalent to burning more than 400 barrels of oil yearly.

The H2-ZE RTG Transtainer Crane produces no emissions, considerably lowering environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency.

This trial initiative, which will operate for the next four years at Yusen Terminals, demonstrates PACECO’s commitment to sustainability and coincides with global efforts to reduce port emissions.

Troy Collard, PACECO’s general manager of sales, expressed enthusiasm for the project’s potential impact, stating that by putting the H2-ZE RTG Transtainer Crane into service, the company is not only introducing new crane fuel technology but also paving the way for our industry to reduce emissions significantly.

The crane operates initially for 16 hours daily and is as efficient as traditional diesel-powered or hybrid RTG cranes.

Beyond emissions reduction, it addresses noise pollution concerns and improves the working conditions for port workers.

Takunari Minamizono, project manager at MITSUI E&S, highlighted the importance of this progress in port technology, saying they are proud to drive this advancement, demonstrate hydrogen fuel cell capabilities, and highlight their commitment to sustainability.

This initiative, partially funded by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), is part of a more comprehensive display of the viability of the hydrogen supply chain, which spans from local generation to consumption in port container handling technology.

The project’s significance in reaching zero-emission terminals was highlighted by Alan McCorkle, President & CEO of Yusen Terminals, who said that putting the H2-ZE RTG Transtainer Crane into service at their terminal is an essential step towards an emissions-free terminal.

The launch of the H2-ZE RTG Transtainer Crane is an important step forward in decarbonising the port sector as ports worldwide work to achieve challenging sustainability targets.

PACECO and MITSUI E&S are well-positioned to lead the maritime logistics sector toward a more environmentally friendly future, with ambitions to expand even further after the pilot project.3.5

Reference: PACECO, MITSUI E&S

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