APM to retrofit electric-run RTGs at Laem Chabang
APM Terminals has signed a €1m ($1.3m) contract with Germany-based Conductix-Wampfler to retrofit and convert rubber-tire gantry (RTG) cranes from diesel to electric power at Thailand's Laem Chabang container port, Seatrade Asia online reports. “The electrification of the RTGs at LCB1 will enhance Port of Laem Chabang’s leadership position within environmental performance and make the port a role model for other ports in Thailand and elsewhere in the region,” said LCB Container Terminal 1, ceo Niels Hansen.
By reducing diesel fuel consumption in the existing RTG engines, the terminal is projected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 1,300 tonnes annually.
Diesel-powered RTGs account for approximately 20% of all carbon dioxide emissions from terminal operations.
The conversion of LCB1's RTGs is scheduled to be completed in 2013, with the considerably larger RTG fleet at Malaysia's Port of Tanjung Pelepas scheduled for conversion.
There are currently a total of 158 diesel-powered RTGs in operation at Thai ports.