By Karen Robes Meeks
A $5.3 million grant from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) will be used to bring online hydrogen- and electric-powered cargo-handling equipment to two shipping terminals at the Port of Long Beach.
SSA Marine’s Pacific Container Terminal at Pier J will demonstrate two battery-electric cargo-moving vehicles known as “top handlers” while Long Beach Container Terminal at Pier E will test out one hydrogen fuel-cell yard tractor, one battery-electric top handler and one battery-electric yard tractor. The project will provide an opportunity for a head-to-head comparison between the hydrogen fuel cell and battery-electric systems.
“Our partnerships with the California Air Resources Board and other agencies provide crucial funding for these vital demonstration projects as we work to create a zero-emissions seaport,” said Port of Long Beach Executive Director, Mario Cordero.
“The progress we’ve made in reducing pollution is a model for seaports everywhere, with diesel emissions alone down almost 90 percent since we adopted the Clean Air Action Plan in 2005,” said Harbor Commission President Lou Anne Bynum. “Still, we are not satisfied. This equipment will further contribute to a cleaner environment for our neighboring communities.”
Equipment testing is expected to begin next year.