DaChan Bay Terminals has commenced operations of two electric empty container stackers enhancing further its decarbonisation efforts — the first batch of pure electric empty container stackers in operations at the terminals as well as in Shenzhen.

The electric empty container stacker is capable of running continuously for more than 12 consecutive hours and only takes one hour to fully recharge and also has a built-in energy recovery system.  

DaChan Bay Terminals said in a statement that the technology of the stackers is proven to be mature and on average it consumes only 1 unit (kWh) of electricity with a CO2 emission of 0.96kg for handling a TEU.

CO2 emission reduction

"These electric empty container stackers can help reduce 45% of carbon emission per TEU while there will be no direct emission of carbon, nitrogen or any particulates at the terminals," it said, adding that compared to its diesel-powered counterpart, the electric stacker is simple to operate and offers stability in operations and lower maintenance cost.

The electric empty container stackers marked another milestone in DaChan Bay Terminals' decarbonisation efforts.

"DaChan Bay Terminals was the first container terminal in the world to deploy a full fleet of electric rubber-tyred gantry cranes from the commencement of operation in 2007 and also the first in South China to offer shore power at all berths in December 2019," it said.

DaChan Bay Terminals noted that it has ordered a second batch of electric empty container stackers which is expected to be delivered in February 2023.