APM Terminals Barcelona increases reefer capacity by 31%, cuts CO2 emissions
In response to rapidly growing customer demand, APM Terminals Barcelona, Spain has increased reefer capacity by 31%. The electrical capacity of the terminal has also been improved, leading to a reduction in CO2 emissions of 600 tonnes per annum, the Company said in its news release.
An additional 152 reefer plugs have been added at the terminal, raising the total to 677. New reefer racks enable reefers to be stacked up to 4 containers high, compared with 3 on current racks. The modern design also improves safety for employees carrying out repairs and maintenance.
The new reefer racks, are connected to the central power supply, which has been increased by investment in an additional indoor substation. This means that over-capacity reefers no longer need to rely on diesel gensets, leading to a reduction of around 600 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year. Connecting to the electricity supply network also reduces localised pollution in the terminal environment.
Reducing environmental impact
As part of a broader Port of Barcelona’s programme for alternative fuel use, APM Terminals is also working with LNG services provider HAM, technology provider IDIADA and Naturgy Iberia, on a pilot to convert an existing straddle carrier to natural gas. Natural gas burns a lot more cleanly and efficiently than diesel. The straddle carrier’s two 150 kW diesel-based motor engines are currently being converted to natural gas while maintaining the same level of performance. The pilot is scheduled for October this year.
APM Terminals Barcelona has a capacity of 1.6 million TEUs per year. The terminals uses a modern wireless network to provide real-time data on all the details of a container’s itinerary, from the moment it is unloaded off a ship to being despatched from the port (or vice versa). This ensures the procedure is as quick and efficient as possible. Customers can track progress via an online customer platform.
The terminal also has its own on-dock rail connection, immediate access to the motorway network and automated gate access for optimum intermodal efficiency. The Terminal provides direct access to a large hinterland.
