Dubai-based DP World has progressed to the second stage – a year-long field trial – after successfully completing the initial testing of its hydrogen fuel cell-powered rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) crane.
The tests, which aim to greatly aid the decarbonisation of DP World’s global port operations, are underway at the Port of Vancouver in Canada. The company is now evaluating the potential to electrify its entire fleet of 1,500 RTG cranes, which are currently diesel-powered.
DP World’s Green Initiative
RTG cranes are vital for cargo handling but are notable sources of greenhouse gas emissions. At DP World’s Vancouver terminal, 19 RTGs account for half of the diesel consumption and produce over 4,200 tonnes of CO₂ each year.
Hydrogen technology could substantially lower, or even eliminate, these emissions.
Launched in October 2023, the pilot’s first phase involved retrofitting a diesel RTG with a Hydrogen-Electric Generator (HEG), battery energy storage, hydrogen storage module, regenerative energy capture, and integrated safety and control systems.
During factory testing, the retrofitted system operated continuously for 16 hours, lifting and lowering a 40-tonne load 105 times, emitting only steam compared to 400 kilograms of CO₂ from a standard diesel unit.
The RTG has now begun field trials to monitor hydrogen use, energy production, and energy recovery. This will enable comparisons with diesel RTGs in terms of efficiency, reliability, maintenance, cost, and environmental impact.
Doug Smith, CEO of DP World in Canada, stated that the project not only demonstrates DP World’s commitment to sustainability but also sets a new industry standard.
The RTG stores up to 135kg of compressed hydrogen in 15 tanks, which powers an electric drive via a fuel cell and battery system.
