This Port of LA terminal just ditched all propane forklifts for electric

SSA Marine just pulled off a major clean energy win at the Port of Los Angeles. The global terminal operator has officially transitioned its entire fleet of forklifts at Berth 55 from propane to electric, making it the company’s first terminal to run 100% zero-emissions cargo handling equipment.

Berth 55 handles imported fruit from South America, and SSA Marine has operated there since the 1980s. Now, its 44 Hyster forklifts – 12 heavy-duty 10,000 lb. models and 32 3,000 lb. models – at the Port of LA are all electric. SSA Marine says the shift will cut propane use by around 44,000 gallons yearly and slash tailpipe carbon emissions by around 264 metric tons annually.

SSA Marine’s VP of sustainability, Meghan Weinman, said, “We are proud to partner with the Port of Los Angeles on this ambitious project, and we’re confident that Berth 55 will serve as a blueprint for future initiatives.”

The upgrade was a three-year effort between SSA Marine, the Port of LA, and several partners.

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Michael DiBernardo, deputy executive director at the port, said the achievement moves them closer to a big climate goal: making all yard equipment at the Port of LA emissions-free by 2030. “As a result of this initiative, SSA Marine has completed that goal five years ahead of schedule, which we appreciate.”

Read more: Arc is developing a 26-foot dual motor electric tugboat for the Port of Los Angeles

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