Photo: Paceco Corporation
Paceco Corporation has launched the world’s first commercial operation of a hydrogen fuel cell-powered rubber-tired gantry (RTG) crane at the Port of Los Angeles (LA). Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Hayward, California, Paceco is a leading supplier in container handling, having delivered over 2500 systems globally to 200 ports. As part of the California Hydrogen Hub, the Port of LA will receive up to $1.2 billion in funding from the Department of Energy, bringing their total funds for hydrogen technologies to $15 billion.
The H2-ZE RTG Transtainer Crane, developed with MITSUI E&S and funded by the Japanese New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, began operations at Yusen Terminals Inc. on May 15, 2024, marking a global first in fully hydrogen-powered RTG cranes.
Yusen Terminals President & CEO Alan McCorkle stated, “YTI is proud to host this groundbreaking project from Paceco. Deploying the H2-ZE RTG Transtainer Crane is a significant step towards achieving a zero-emissions terminal and supports Port of LA’s sustainability goals.”
Initially powered by a 500-kilowatt (kW) diesel genset emitting carbon dioxide equivalent to over 400 barrels of oil annually, the crane evolved to include a hybrid design with a 100-kW diesel engine and larger battery. The latest innovation integrates a custom-built fuel cell power pack from Toyota, providing 60-kW of continuous power and enabling up to 16 hours of operation with zero emissions. Refueling occurs during non-operational hours using a mobile refueler built by Toyota Tsusho and OneH2, ensuring operational efficiency.
Paceco plans to operate the crane at Yusen Terminals for four years, expanding its fuel cell power pack concept to future deployments. Troy Collard, Paceco’s General Manager of Sales, remarked, “Deploying the H2-ZE RTG Transtainer Crane sets a new standard in emissions reduction for our industry. We’re excited about its operation in Los Angeles and grateful to our partners for their support.” Innovative projects like Paceco’s hydrogen-powered crane exemplify efforts to decarbonize ports and reduce regional pollution.
