Innovation to reduce pollution and improve air quality: Fully electric mobile port cranes

Project Leader

The project manager is The Port of San Diego.

Description of the project 

The Port of San Diego has purchased two fully electric, battery-powered mobile harbor cranes for approximately $14 million from Konecrane. These cranes, which are the first of their kind in North America, provide advanced technology and sustainable practices to revolutionize port operations. They are also expected to increase the capacity of the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal and reduce emissions.

All-electric mobile harbour cranes use state-of-the-art technology to deliver increased performance and efficiency. With its increased lifting capacity, up to 400 tons, and higher unloading speed, it is expected to improve the port’s current operations. The integration of advanced technology into these cranes underscores the Port of San Diego’s commitment to staying ahead of industry advancements.

The innovative approach of replacing diesel cranes with all-electric cranes is in line with the port’s Maritime Clean Air Strategy. Eliminating the use of fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions contributes to the overall goal of reducing pollution and improving air quality around the port.

Thanks to their advanced technology and capacity, these cranes can handle higher load volumes, which translates into greater efficiency and productivity. This increased capacity allows the port to compete for more business opportunities and attract shipping companies seeking more efficient and sustainable port operations.

This pioneering step demonstrates the port’s willingness to embrace new technologies and explore innovative solutions to improve operations and reduce environmental impact.

The use of all-electric cranes is a current goal in many ports.

Objectives of the project

The main objectives of the project are the use of fully electric mobile cranes and achieving the Maritime Clean Air Strategy, promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impact. In addition, it also intends to increase capacity at the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal and improve competitiveness and effectiveness in order to attract more business and opportunities.