Media Release: Napier Port’s newly commissioned container handling equipment will help to drive down emissions on port

Last month, Napier Port took possession of four new Kalmar container handling machines – two Eco Reach Stackers and two Empty Container Handlers, after a comprehensive procurement process that was aligned to the port’s Emissions Reduction Strategy and wider sustainability objectives. These machines have a natural, long-term life cycle, so it is critical the right environmental and investment decisions are made as the port works towards its goal of net zero emissions by 2050.

Napier Port CEO Todd Dawson was excited to see the newly commissioned Kalmar equipment moving cargo in the container terminal and said the port is focused on the reduction of diesel consumption and reducing carbon emissions on port.

“We made good progress last year on measuring our emissions and developing an Emission Reduction Strategy that will provide the framework to guide Napier Port’s important decarbonising journey ahead. This decision-making framework requires mandatory consideration of low emission technology for any investment or business case and is aligned to our Asset Renewal Programme.” said Dawson.

“Our new Kalmar Eco Reach Stackers are best in class for emission rates and all four machines offer more efficient fuel usage rates over our existing inventory and will help drive down our annual diesel consumption and total emissions on port. Additionally, a favourable total cost of ownership analysis, including the potential benefits of a long-term disposal partnership for existing equipment, highlighted Kalmar as the supplier of choice when it came to finding a supplier whose values and broader sustainability objectives closely aligned with those of Napier Port,” added Dawson.

Kalmar New Zealand Director Jason Manak was pleased to confirm the recent equipment delivery for Napier Port and outlined a number of other key benefits its fleet will deliver to the port.

Manak said, “Kalmar use eco-efficient technology to reduce fuel consumption by up to 40% in comparison to traditionally powered diesel equipment. Combined with the highest lifting and lowering rates for improved cargo-handling productivity, these machines are able to operate with a reduced running costs per move. Longer servicing intervals also help to provide further cost savings over time. Additionally, this modern equipment has a number of inbuilt safety systems including integrated fire suppression (fitted as an optional extra).”

Diesel usage is the primary source of Napier Port’s current emissions with its container handler fleet now 36 machines being one of the biggest sources of Scope 1* carbon emissions (2,945.6 tCO₂e in FY22) on port, and other contributors including the marine fleet and six mobile harbour cranes.

Todd Dawson continued, “Napier Port’s sustainability journey is one of continuous improvement and we’re keeping a close eye on low emissions technology for all of our assets. We’re encouraged by

the speed of advancement for alternative fuel solutions; however, currently any viable options tend to be lower-power and lower-range than are ideal for Napier Port’s current specific requirements.”

There is still uncertainly regarding emerging technology, cost and the supply and distribution of green electricity, hydrogen and charging networks. Accordingly, Napier Port’s emissions reduction strategy framework will continue to be developed over the coming years and involve further investigations into the viability of alternative fuel sources.

*Scope 1 – Direct GHG Emissions occurring from sources that are owned or controlled by the company.

NOTES:

• Last year, Napier Port focused on defining its greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory scope to reflect best practice, including identifying a wider range of Scope 3 emissions. Under the GHG Protocol, these emissions are classified under the following categories:
  • Scope 1 – Direct GHG Emissions occurring from sources that are owned or controlled by the company.
  • Scope 2 – Indirect GHG emission occurring from the generation of purchased electricity, heat and steam consumed by the company.
  • Scope 3 – emissions that occur as a consequence of the company’s activities, but from sources not owned or controlled by the company, including for example business travel or employee commuting or fuel and energy-related activities not included in Scope 1 or 2.
• Napier Port’s second Climate Change Related Disclosure Report (available here) was published in November 2022 and provides an understanding of the potential financial implications of climate change on the business.
• Napier Port’s emissions inventory was audited externally for the first time by Toitū Envirocare in 2022.
• In 2022, Napier Port signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with New Zealand zero emissions hydrogen specialists Hiringa Energy to investigate renewable energy initiatives involving the use of green hydrogen.

Media Contact:
Chris Lonergan
Communications Manager, Napier Port
Email: chrisl@napierport.co.nz
Phone: 027 255 0486

About Napier Port
Napier Port is New Zealand’s fourth largest port by container volume. We are the gateway for Hawke’s Bay and lower North Island’s exports and operate a long-term regional infrastructure asset that supports the regional economy. Our strategic purpose is to collaborate with the people and organisations that have a stake in helping our region grow.