Hutchison Port Holdings-owned (HPH) Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT) is carrying out a series of ‘green’ equipment initiatives in a bid to help reduce CO2 emissions in and around Pakistan.
The programme has already seen the conversion of 20 rubber-tyred gantry cranes (RTGs) into hybrid models for a total cost of US$5.5m and will see the electrification of seven quay cranes, which is expected to be completed later this year.
“KICT is mindful of the need to protect the environment and is actively identifying viable options to ‘reduce, reuse and recycle’ in its operations,” said Keith Lau, CEO.
The electric quay cranes will be connected to a newly-built powerhouse that HPH says is more efficient than individual onboard diesel engines, while the hybrid RTGs are fitted with batteries. Both of these allow for the utilisation of recycled power that is produced when containers are lowered.
As a result, the initiatives are expected to result in a reduction of four million kilograms of CO2 per annum at the terminal.
“The conversion of RTGCs into hybrid models and the electrification of QCs underline our commitment to reduce our carbon footprint and conserve resources. It has also set a benchmark for the industry to adopt green management practices,” he added.
KICT is the largest container terminal operator in Pakistan with 11 QCs and 29 RTGs in operation and will be the first operator in the country to electrify its QCs and covert RTGCs into hybrid models.
source: greenport |