BUSINESS

ICTSI Papua New Guinea acquires 2 new RTGs

Raffy Ayeng

The Papua New Guinean subsidiary of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. has announced the acquisition of two-brand new Mitsui hybrid rubber-tired gantries, or RTGs, in its bid to ramp up its operations.

In a statement, ICTSI said South Pacific International Container Terminal or SPICT, which operates the Motukea International Terminal in Port Moresby and South Pacific International Container Terminal in Lae Tidal Basin, said the newly acquired RTGs are powered by a combination of a smaller diesel engine and lithium-ion battery.

Mitsui hybrids

The Mitsui hybrids are also deemed to contribute to a more efficient landside operation resulting in faster turnaround time for outside trucks.

Furthermore, the hybrid mechanism helps reduce the terminal's greenhouse gas emissions.

Last year, SPICT also took delivery of two post-Panamax ship-to-shore cranes — the first of their kind and currently the largest port equipment in Papua New Guinea.

"The receipt of two electric STS cranes for the berth was the first big step of our terminal decarbonization journey, and we are very excited to receive these Hybrid RTG cranes, which show SPICT's ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint from yard operations," according to Robert Maxwell, CEO ICTSI South Pacific.