NorthPort, the Philippines’ leading gateway for domestic cargo operations, managed by International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), has announced a significant milestone in its sustainability roadmap with the successful conversion of its initial fleet of rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes to hybrid power.
The strategic conversion immediately resulted in a 49-percent reduction in carbon emissions and diesel consumption, positioning NorthPort as a pioneer in green port operations within the region.
Six existing RTGs underwent the conversion, replacing their traditional diesel generator sets with smaller generators paired with advanced, high-capacity, liquid-cooled battery systems. These hybrid RTGs now primarily operate on battery power, with the smaller generator sets acting solely to recharge the batteries. This system drastically reduces diesel reliance and lowers overall maintenance requirements.
The initial batch of hybrid RTGs is now fully operational, successfully cutting the terminal’s average annual carbon emissions by almost half—from 2,186 tons to an estimated 1,109 tons.
“This transformation is a tangible demonstration of NorthPort’s commitment to environmental stewardship and world-class operations,” said a NorthPort spokesperson. “By embedding hybrid technology into our core equipment, we are not only meeting global standards for responsible port management but also making a substantial contribution to the Philippines’ environmental goals. This investment ensures enhanced operational efficiency while drastically reducing our carbon footprint.”
NorthPort is also moving forward with the next phase of its fleet modernization, confirming the acquisition of four new Mitsui hybrid RTG units, which are scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2026. This expansion underscores the terminal’s commitment to adopting sustainable practices that ensure adaptability and maintain high levels of customer service.
