DP World achieves breakthrough in hydrogen fuel technology at Vancouver Port
- DP World has initiated a pilot project to test a hydrogen fuel cell crane at the Port of Vancouver.
- The project aims to reduce the significant CO2 emissions produced by diesel-powered cranes in the area.
- Successful trials could lead to the electrification of DP World's RTG crane fleet and advancements in sustainable port operations.
In Vancouver, Canada, DP World has made significant headway in its effort to decarbonize port operations as of April 2025. The company has successfully conducted initial testing for its hydrogen fuel cell rubber-tired gantry (RTG) crane. The project marks the first phase of a pilot program launched in October 2023, aimed at exploring the feasibility of electrifying the company's fleet of RTG cranes. At the Vancouver terminal, these cranes account for 50% of diesel consumption and generate massive CO2 emissions annually, highlighting the pressing need for innovative energy solutions in port logistics. Partnership has played a vital role in this project, with DP World collaborating with TYCROP Manufacturing Ltd., H2 Portable, and HTEC. TYCROP and H2 Portable designed a Hydrogen-Electric Generator utilizing dual fuel cells and a high-voltage battery system, while HTEC supplied the hydrogen storage and fuel requirements. This innovative system allows the RTG crane to operate with a capacity of storing 135 kg of compressed hydrogen, powering an advanced electric drive system and recovering energy while lowering containers. This approach could result in dramatically reduced emissions, greatly benefiting the environment and establishing a new standard for RTG operations. The second phase of this endeavor consists of a one-year field trial to monitor critical performance metrics such as hydrogen consumption and energy generation. Early trials have yielded promising results, with the crane operating for 16 uninterrupted hours and executing a significant number of lifts without producing carbon emissions. If the ongoing field tests continue to show positive results, DP World plans to convert its fleet of diesel-powered cranes in Vancouver and Prince Rupert to hydrogen fuel cell technology. In addition to the RTG cranes, DP World is laying the groundwork for further advancements in electrification. The organization has announced plans to trial an electric terminal tractor in Vancouver and is in the process of acquiring electric vehicles, all aimed at meeting its zero-emissions objectives. As the logistics and transportation industry faces mounting pressure to reduce carbon emissions, projects like these highlight the potential of hydrogen technology and the broader shift towards cleaner energy solutions in the supply chain sector.