The Port of Kalundborg has converted its two Gottwald container cranes in Ny Vesthavn so that they now run on 100 % electricity instead of diesel. The electrification of the cranes is a central part of the port's green transition, and with the conversion, the Port of Kalundborg reduces its CO₂ emissions and takes a major step towards the Nordic region's first CO₂-neutral container terminal.
The Port of Kalundborg is taking another important step towards a greener future and has electrified its two Gottwald cranes at the container terminal at Ny Vesthavn. The project, which is a central part of the port's sustainability strategy, underlines the Port of Kalundborg's role as a frontrunner in the green transition of port operations through the Green Zealand Gateway project in strong collaboration with APM Terminals.
Now both cranes are ready to receive container ships after being out of service for several days, while technicians have carried out an extensive conversion of the cranes to convert them to electric operation. At the same time, a transformer station and infrastructure have been established on the quay in Ny Vesthavn, so that the cranes can be connected to power during the entire operation.
The project contributes to significantly greener container handling and supports the Port of Kalundborg's work towards sustainable port operations - both environmentally and commercially.
"With the electrification of our cranes, we are taking our green promises seriously and showing that we are an ambitious partner in maritime sustainability. Electric cranes are an important part of reducing our environmental impact, because the cranes no longer have to burn diesel for hours. We increase our competitiveness by setting a high standard for more sustainable container handling," says Bent Rasmussen, Port Director at the Port of Kalundborg.
As a port that provides important logistics services to a multitude of large customers, the Port of Kalundborg is also aware of the sustainability goals that several of the port's customers have for their own value chain. CO₂ neutrality is an important priority for many of the port's customers, and it is therefore a necessity for the port to be able to offer services that are both environmentally friendly and efficient. This helps to ensure that the Port of Kalundborg remains an attractive and competitive partner in the market.
“Our customers demand sustainable solutions, and therefore it is crucial that we as a port can deliver services that support their green goals. The electrification of our cranes is a concrete step in that direction and an investment in the future,” says Bent Rasmussen and continues: “Our customers' need for sustainable solutions is increasing steadily, and our ambition level is not only to meet their current needs, but to help them meet future ones.”
Port-Trade, which has supplied the necessary technical solutions for the project, and Brix Elteknik, which has been responsible for establishing the necessary electrical infrastructure, have been key partners in the project. Their expertise has been crucial for the successful electrification of the cranes.
"At Brix Elteknik, we are proud to have played an important role in Kalundborg Port's ambitious steps towards a green container port. We believe that electrification is the way forward, and we are happy to be part of this important transition. Our work in establishing supply for the cranes has been a fun and exciting task. We look forward to following the port's further development and continuing the collaboration on sustainable solutions," says Jacob Brix from Brix Elteknik ApS.
An important detail is that the cranes can continue to run on diesel in the event of a power outage – a feature that is particularly necessary in an uncertain world plagued by conflict. This ensures that the Port of Kalundborg can maintain a high level of operational stability and avoid downtime in the event of operational disruptions or power grid failures.
“In a time of uncertainty, it is essential that we as a port can maintain our operations in the event of sabotage to the power grid. The ability to switch to diesel if the power were to go out gives us the necessary flexibility and security to meet both environmental requirements and operational needs,” says Bent Rasmussen.
The Port of Kalundborg is now ready to continue its growth as a sustainable port and continue to meet the increasing demand for green and efficient solutions in maritime operations.
