Port Nelson has introduced the country’s first electric dual-drive harbour crane as well as a new pilot boat.
The $17 million electric dual-drive mobile crane received $500,000 in contestable co-funding from the Government’s Low Emission Transport Fund, administered by EECA (Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority).
Standing at 52.8 meters and weighing around 640 tonnes, the crane has a reach of 13 to 61 meters and has a lifespan of 15 years.
It can seamlessly switch to diesel when necessary and can perform comparably to traditional diesel-driven cranes but with substantial benefits in efficiency, emissions, and noise reduction.
Alongside the new addition, Port Nelson is retrofitting one of its existing diesel cranes with an electric motor with support from EECA, which provided additional co-funding of $375K towards the conversion.
EECA delivery and partnerships group manager Richard Briggs says the project will demonstrate to other New Zealand ports how a critical piece of equipment can be electrified.
“As the country’s first electric dual-drive harbour crane, showing how it can be integrated into daily operations will give confidence to the wider industry to consider adopting similar technology as part of overall goals to improve energy efficiency, increase productivity, and ultimately save on operating costs.”
With cranes accounting for around 22% of Port Nelson’s Scope 1 emissions, the electric machine is set to make a meaningful contribution to the port’s emissions reduction targets.
It is expected to operate in electric mode for up to 85% of the time and is also expected to help lower the port’s operating costs.
New launch boat
Meanwhile, the port has also welcomed a new purpose-built pilot vessel, gifted the name Mānuka by local iwi.
The 17.3-metre Hart Marine boat is larger than the port’s current pilot launch, Waimea II, offering enhanced stability and capabilities.
“Mānuka is an important investment in the safety and efficiency of our operations at Port Nelson,” newly appointed chief executive Matt McDonald says.
“The vessel provides a safer platform for our pilots, designed to handle the wide range of sea conditions typical in Tasman Bay.
“It also reflects our commitment to ensuring reliable services for all vessels entering and exiting our waters,” he says.
