PD Ports continues investment in eco-friendly technology

UK port operator PD Ports has continued its investment in environmentally sustainable technology at Teesport as part of its commitment to reducing the port’s carbon footprint.

In December, PD Ports took delivery of three electric rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes, supplied by Liebherr Container Cranes Limited, as part of the latest phase in the port operator’s container terminal expansion at Teesport.

The RTGs, which are more than 24 metres high and weigh 135 tonnes, are the first of PD Ports’ electrically powered fleet and a greener alternative to the existing diesel cranes.

“This investment is key to our ongoing investment in infrastructure at Teesport…We are continuously working to reduce our impact on the environment whilst supporting sustainable practices and the new cranes will significantly reduce emissions from equipment,” Frans Calje, PD Ports’ Chief Executive, commented.

The new RTGs, which supplement the port’s existing fleet of seven cranes, will enable Teesport to support future trade growth coming in and out of the north of the UK, as well as boosting PD Ports’ bid to become one of the government’s 10 Free Ports, as announced in February.

“With the supply of these electric RTGs, PD Ports … can benefit from the reduced running costs and zero emissions that these machines bring,” David Griffin, Managing Director – Sales Liebherr Container Cranes, said.