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ICTSI Manila terminal gets first near-zero emission RTGsICTSI Manila terminal gets first near-zero emission RTGs

Manila International Container Terminal (MICT) is enhancing environmentally friendly operations with the arrival of eight hybrid RTGs featuring near-zero emission (NZE) technology.

Michele Labrut, Americas Correspondent

February 4, 2025

1 Min Read
New RTGs at Manila International Container Terminal
Credit: ICTSI

The yard cranes are manufactured by Japan's Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. (MES), and are powered by a combination of a 100-kilovolt-ampere (kVA) lithium-ion battery and a smaller diesel engine, cut emissions by 60 to 70% compared to traditional RTGs. 

Unlike conventional RTGs, the NZE RTGs use the smaller diesel engine primarily to charge the lithium-ion batteries, which power the crane's electric motors. This reduces reliance on fossil fuels and significantly lowers emissions.

Additionally, 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, which translates to an annual carbon dioxide emissions reduction of 1.97 kilotons, supporting MICT’s decarbonisation strategy and environmental sustainability goals.

“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,” said Christian R. Gonzalez, ICTSI Executive Vice President.

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. Once completed in 2027, Berth 8 will add 200,000 teu in yard capacity and accommodate larger vessels of up to 18,000 teu.

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About the Author

Michele Labrut

Americas Correspondent

Michèle Labrut is a long-time Panama resident, a journalist and correspondent, and has continuously covered the maritime sector of Central & Latin America.

Michèle first came to Panama as a press attaché to the French Embassy and then returned to the isthmus as a foreign correspondent in the 1980s.

Author of Seatrade Maritime's annual Panama Maritime Review magazine and of several books, Michèle also wrote for Time magazine, The Miami Herald, NBC News and the Economist Intelligence Unit. She has also collaborated in making several documentaries for the BBC and European and U.S. television networks.

Michèle's profession necessitates a profound knowledge of the country, but her acumen is not from necessity alone, but a genuine passion for Panama.

In 2012 she was awarded the Order of Merit (Knight grade) by the French Government for her services to international journalism and in 2021 the upgrade to Chevalier grade.

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