NorthPort, the Philippines’ lead gateway for domestic cargo operated by International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI), has taken a significant step towards more sustainable operations with the conversion of its rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes into hybrids. 

The conversion enables the RTGs to operate more efficiently while reducing the terminal’s carbon footprint.

Six RTGs have been converted into hybrids by replacing their diesel generator sets into smaller generators that were paired with high-capacity, liquid-cooled battery systems. 

These now run primarily on batteries, which are recharged by the smaller generator sets, resulting in reduced diesel consumption and maintenance requirements.

Fully operational

The initial batch of hybrids is fully operational, achieving a 49-percent reduction in carbon emissions and diesel consumption. This lowers the terminal’s average annual carbon emissions by half from 2,186 tons to an estimated 1,109 tons. 

Hybrid RTG fleet expansion

Furthermore, NorthPort is expanding its hybrid RTG fleet with the acquisition of four new Mitsui hybrid units, scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2026.

The adoption of hybrid technology underscores NorthPort’s commitment to environmental stewardship, world-class port operations, and exceptional customer service. 

The initiative supports the terminal’s sustainability roadmap, aligning with global standards for responsible port operations, and ensuring the terminal’s adaptability while contributing to the Philippines’ environmental and economic goals.

As the Philippines’ primary domestic gateway, Northport handles most of the domestic trade at the Port of Manila, linking the Philippine capital to the rest of the archipelago through passenger transport, inter-island shipping, and container- handling services.

For its part,  International Container Terminal Services Inc.,  headquartered and established in 1988 in Manila, is in the business of port development, management and operations.