DP World Advances Lower-Emission Port Operations With Hybrid Crane at Prince Rupert
At DP World’s Prince Rupert terminal, the equipment that keeps cargo moving is becoming more efficient, and lower emission. DP World recently launched its first hybrid rubber-tired gantry (RTG) crane retrofit at the terminal, converting an existing diesel-powered crane into a hybrid diesel-electric system that has reduced fuel consumption by more than 60% compared with ...
DP World, a global logistics company, has upgraded its Prince Rupert terminal in Canada with a hybrid rubber-tired gantry (RTG) crane, marking a significant step towards lower emission port operations. The retrofit, which converted a diesel-powered crane into a diesel-electric hybrid system, has slashed fuel consumption by over 60%, resulting in annual CO₂e emission reductions of approximately 100 tonnes.
The hybrid system works by replacing the large diesel engine with a smaller 80 kW generator, which charges onboard batteries as needed. It also recaptures energy generated during the lowering of containers, further reducing fuel consumption. Unlike fully electric cranes, the hybrid RTG does not require external charging infrastructure, ensuring independent operation throughout terminal activities.
Doug Smith, CEO of DP World in Canada, highlighted the dual benefits of this retrofit, noting that it not only supports environmental goals but also improves engine maintenance costs and crane reliability. "This retrofit is a practical example of how we are advancing decarbonization across our operations while maintaining high levels of productivity and performance," he stated.
The Prince Rupert terminal operates six RTGs, with the first hybrid conversion completed this year, followed by more retrofits planned. Since 2025, DP World and its partners at the Port of Prince Rupert have replaced more than 2 million liters of conventional diesel with renewable fuel, equivalent to avoiding approximately 5,400 metric tonnes of CO₂ emissions.
They also introduced shore power at DP World’s Fairview Container Terminal, which allows ships to shut down auxiliary diesel engines and connect to BC’s hydroelectric grid, potentially reducing carbon emissions by 30,000 tonnes annually.
These efforts are part of DP World's broader strategy to decarbonize its operations across Canada. The company piloted a hydrogen-powered RTG crane in Vancouver and achieved Green Marine recertification at several terminals. Beyond equipment, DP World supports environmental initiatives like removing litter from shorelines and expanding the Whale Report Alert System to reduce the risk of vessel strikes.
The hybrid RTG at Prince Rupert exemplifies how DP World is transforming its operations, one piece of equipment at a time, to support sustainable trade while minimizing environmental impact.
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