move towards sustainable infrastructure development, the Port of Gothenburg has partnered with Hitachi Energy and Skanska to pioneer emission-free excavation work in one of its largest projects to date. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the integration of hydrogen technology within maritime and logistics operations.
Piloting Innovative Hydrogen Generator Technology
Recent weeks have witnessed the commencement of emission-free excavation work in the Port of Gothenburg’s expansive infrastructure project, facilitated by a cutting-edge hydrogen generator featuring groundbreaking technology. Developed in collaboration with Hitachi Energy, the generator represents a scalable, portable, and plug-and-play solution, boasting a range of components including fuel cell modules, power electronics, cooling systems, auxiliary systems, and an intelligent control system.
The pilot tests, conducted at the Arendal 2 terminal area within the Port of Gothenburg, mark the inaugural field trial of Hitachi Energy’s hydrogen generator. This innovative technology has been operational for the past two weeks, utilizing green hydrogen supplied by Linde Gas to power a charging station on-site. Subsequently, the charging station provides electricity to an electric excavator manufactured by Volvo, employed in a major infrastructure project spanning 140,000 square meters within the port premises.
Revolutionizing Terminal Development
Arendal 2 stands as the largest terminal development initiative undertaken by the Port of Gothenburg since the 1970s. Situated atop a foundation comprising blasted stone and repurposed contaminated dredged material, the terminal area embodies a testament to innovative engineering and sustainable practices. Techniques such as stabilization and solidification of contaminated dredged material, pioneered during the project’s inception in 2016, underscore the commitment to environmental stewardship and technological advancement.
David Norén, project manager for Arendal 2 at the Gothenburg Port Authority, expresses enthusiasm about the project’s integration of cutting-edge solutions: “So it’s particularly exciting that we’ve had the opportunity to test the facility in this project, where collaboration, sustainability, and innovative solutions have truly characterized the work from day one.”
Embracing the Potential of Hydrogen in Port Operations
The Port of Gothenburg’s strategic vision encompasses a 70 percent reduction in port-related CO2e emissions, extending from maritime routes to onshore facilities. Central to this vision is the adoption of hydrogen technology, recognized for its versatility and eco-friendly attributes. Viktor Allgurén, innovation manager at the Gothenburg Port Authority, emphasizes hydrogen’s multifaceted applications within port operations: “In a diverse and energy-intensive operation like a port, there are many areas of use. It can be used as fuel for trucks, trains, or handling equipment in terminals, for propulsion of ships, or to support the power grid when a ship is connected to shore power. So the use of hydrogen fits perfectly into the port context.”
This collaborative endeavor exemplifies the maritime industry’s commitment to pioneering sustainable solutions and underscores the pivotal role of innovation in shaping the future of logistics and cargo handling.
