ICTSI receives 8 RTGs with near-zero emissions

Taking a significant step toward responding to customer demands while ensuring environmentally friendly operations in its flagship Manila International Container Terminal (MICT), the Enrique Razon-led International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) has acquired eight hybrid rubber-tired gantries (RTGs) featuring near-zero emission (NZE) technology.

The said RTGs, manufactured by Japan’s Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. (MES), reflect MICT’s commitment to continually invest in equipment and technology not only to deliver the highest levels of productivity but also to be environmentally responsible.

In a statement on Monday, ICTSI executive vice president Christian R. Gonzalez said the new RTGs, powered by a combination of a 100-kilovolt-ampere (kVA) lithium-ion battery and a smaller diesel engine, cut emissions by 60 to 70 percent compared to traditional RTGs.

Smaller diesel engines

In contrast with conventional RTGs, the NZE RTGs use a smaller diesel engine to charge the lithium-ion batteries which power the crane’s electric motors.

This reduces reliance on fossil fuels and significantly lowers emissions.

Further, the NZE hybrid RTGs feature regenerative braking systems that capture energy during braking to recharge the batteries, improving overall efficiency.

The hybrid technology also delivers substantial fuel savings.

MICT estimates an annual fuel reduction of more than 761,800 liters, a marked improvement over the 644,600 liters consumed by the terminal’s existing hybrid RTGs, which translates to an annual carbon dioxide emissions reduction of 1.97 kilotons, supporting MICT’s decarbonization strategy and environmental sustainability goals.

Commitment to reduce environmental footprint

“The arrival of these near-zero emission RTGs further underpins our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint while enhancing operational capabilities. These new RTGs will improve our productivity, lower carbon emissions and provide better service to our customers,” Gonzalez said.

With the addition of the new RTGs, MICT now operates the Philippines’ largest container-handling fleet, consisting of 18 quay cranes and 52 RTGs.

MICT is undergoing a major expansion, including the second phase construction of Berth 8 and preparations for Berths 9 and 10 beyond fleet upgrades.

Once completed in 2027, Berth 8 will add 200,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in yard capacity and accommodate larger vessels of up to 18,000 TEUs, a development that strengthens MICT’s role as the country’s premier international trading gateway and positions it to meet the growing demands of the global shipping industry.

These initiatives underscore MICT’s commitment to the nation’s sustainability goals and operational excellence and reinforce the Philippines’ position in the global trade network, according to ICTSI.