A Major Step Toward Net Zero at British Columbia Terminals
GCT Global Container Terminals is doubling down on decarbonization. The terminal operator has ordered ten hybrid rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes and its very first fully battery-powered RTG crane from Konecranes, further expanding its lower-emission container handling fleet in British Columbia.
The new additions are headed to two of GCT’s strategic assets: GCT Deltaport and GCT Vanterm. The ten hybrid RTGs will be deployed at Deltaport—Canada’s largest container terminal—while the all-electric RTG is destined for Vanterm. Signed in the first quarter of 2025, the contract includes delivery of all 11 cranes by the third quarter of 2026.
With this latest deal, GCT’s fleet of Konecranes RTGs will rise to 43 units.
GCT’s Low-Carbon Vision in Action
While hybrid cranes aren’t new to GCT’s operations—the terminal already operates several RTGs equipped with Konecranes’ Diesel Fuel Saver system—the addition of a fully battery-powered unit marks a significant first.
“This is a pilot project for us,” said Daniel Howell, Chief Operating Officer at GCT Global Container Terminals. “It will help guide our long-term zero-emission strategy.” He emphasized the company’s commitment to slashing absolute emissions by 45% by 2030, in line with Paris Agreement targets, and achieving net zero by 2050.
So why make the leap now? Because the pressure is on. Environmental regulations are tightening, investors are watching ESG scores like hawks, and customers are demanding cleaner supply chains. GCT, already known for pushing sustainability at its terminals, is clearly trying to stay ahead of the curve—and this move cements that ambition.
What’s Coming to GCT Deltaport?
The ten hybrid RTGs will integrate into operations at GCT Deltaport, a flagship terminal in Delta, British Columbia. These units combine diesel and electric systems to reduce overall fuel consumption and emissions while maintaining high operational efficiency. It’s a middle ground that suits busy yards that need performance without committing to full electrification just yet.
Hybrids are seen as a reliable transitional tech for ports that are on the journey to electrification but still face infrastructure or investment hurdles.
Battery-Powered RTG: Vanterm Goes Electric
The battery-powered RTG heading to GCT Vanterm is more than just a crane—it’s a testbed for future operations. It comes with a dedicated charging container and automated charging interface, built to align with Vanterm’s existing electrical infrastructure. That’s crucial because one of the big challenges in deploying electric port equipment is integrating it without disrupting operations or overhauling site power systems.
This is Konecranes’ first order for a fully battery-powered RTG, making GCT not only an adopter but a partner in innovation.
Jeff Podgorski, Vice President, Regional Sales Americas, Konecranes Port Solutions, noted, “Delivering our first fully battery-operated RTG is a significant milestone for both GCT and Konecranes.” He highlighted that Konecranes has worked with GCT for over a decade, supporting the company’s gradual shift to greener operations.
Konecranes’ Ecolifting Vision
The contract sits firmly within Konecranes’ “Ecolifting” initiative—a long-term strategy that aims to reduce the environmental footprint of its product line while maximizing what they call their “handprint”—the positive impact customers can have using greener equipment.
Konecranes offers a range of options from optimized diesel systems to hybrid and full-electric machines, allowing terminal operators to customize their journey toward emissions reduction.
Digitalization, circularity, and safety also underpin this approach. As container volumes rise and terminals grow denser, the demand for smarter, more sustainable yard equipment is only going to increase.
British Columbia Terminals in the Sustainability Spotlight
British Columbia’s ports are under increasing scrutiny to clean up their operations. Coastal communities, indigenous groups, and environmental NGOs have all called for greater accountability in maritime logistics. GCT’s push toward battery and hybrid cranes is as much about business strategy as it is about public responsibility.
It’s also a competitive move. Terminals that fail to modernize risk losing shipping line contracts to ports that can demonstrate stronger ESG compliance. By investing now, GCT is building resilience—and likely, earning some goodwill.
Next Steps: Data, Testing, and Scaling
The Vanterm pilot will provide GCT with critical data on performance, charging cycles, maintenance needs, and energy costs. That insight will inform future procurement decisions, potentially leading to more fully electric cranes across its terminals.
