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Two of the world’s leading container terminal operators, APM Terminals and DP World, both of which have a strong presence in the Middle East and Subcontinent region, have issued a joint statement committing themselves to work together to accelerate the decarbonisation of terminals through the widespread electrification of container handling equipment. The initiative is based on research showing the “tipping point” for battery-electric equipment can be reached within the next 2-8 years with the right actions from industry stakeholders.
Recent research has found that most of the challenges obstructing the uptake of battery-electric container handling equipment can be overcome provided that industry stakeholders take action now. “Battery-electric equipment in ports is a realistic, achievable and affordable way to dramatically reduce carbon emissions. Throughout my career I’ve seen many industry players talk about various methods for achieving net-zero, but I’ve never been so convinced by one tactic’s ability to accelerate decarbonisation,” says Tiemen Meester, COO of Ports & Terminals, DP World.
The research on which the collaborative project is based provides for a number of actions that can be taken, including making zero-emission operations a requirement of new concessions in ports, and terminal operators and equipment manufacturers working together to scale up demand. Furthermore, suppliers can work on further developing their supply chains and standardising certain components, with the support of terminal operators.
“Essentially, what we want is to provide a healthier, cleaner and more efficient workplace for the thousands working at the terminals and living in the communities around them. And while electrification of the container handling equipment is one piece of the puzzle, we believe it is a piece that can be addressed relatively easier and faster than others if we work together and avoid unnecessary complexity,” added Sahar Rashidbeigi, Global Head of Decarbonisation at APM Terminals.
APM Terminals and DP World say they will encourage industry peers to review the research and support its goals. As a next step, the partners are preparing to mobilise industry-wide collaboration around container handling equipment electrification and zero-emission port operations.
