In a rapidly evolving maritime and logistics industry, sustainability, innovation, and digital transformation have become critical drivers of growth and competitiveness. APM Terminals Bahrain stands at the forefront of this transformation, pioneering ambitious initiatives to reduce carbon emissions, implement cutting-edge technologies, and contribute significantly to Bahrain’s economic and industrial development.
To gain deeper insights into these strategic efforts and the company’s vision for the future, Aryavansh Shukla, Chief Commercial Officer at APM Terminals, shares valuable perspectives on the company’s solar power project, transition to battery-electric equipment, digital innovation, and the comprehensive growth strategy shaping Khalifa Bin Salman port’s role as a regional logistics hub.
How Is APM Terminals Bahrain’s Solar Power Project Reducing Carbon Emissions and Ensuring Sustainable Energy?
APM Terminals Bahrain has embarked on a transformative journey to enhance sustainability at the Khalifa Bin Salman Port (KBSP). By installing over 25,000 solar panels across 71,000 square meters, the port is set to be the region's first fully solar-powered seaport. This ambitious project will generate approximately 18.6 GWh of clean electricity annually, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting carbon emissions by 65%. This initiative aligns seamlessly with Bahrain's national goal of a 30% emissions reduction by 2035 and achieving Net Zero by 2060.
| Read More: APM Terminals reports record-high volumes |
What Factors Are Driving the Transition to Battery-Electric Container Handling Equipment by 2035?
The shift towards battery-electric container handling equipment (CHE) is influenced by several key factors. Notably, the decreasing costs of lithium-ion batteries, which have made battery-electric CHE more economically viable. Additionally, stringent environmental regulations, such as the International Maritime Organization's decarbonization targets, are pushing for zero-emission supply chains. Operational benefits, including reduced fuel costs and maintenance needs, further incentivize this transition. Collaborations within the industry, like APM Terminals Bahrain's partnership with Alba Bahrain for continuous improvement initiatives, demonstrate a collective move towards sustainable practices.
What Challenges Are Involved in Transitioning to Battery-Electric Equipment, and How Is APM Terminals Bahrain Addressing Them?
Transitioning to battery-electric equipment involves challenges such as high upfront costs, lack of standardization among original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), power supply and grid integration issues, and a shortage of skilled workforce.
APM Terminals Bahrain is proactively addressing these challenges through several targeted strategies a comprehensive approach to overcoming the challenges of transitioning to battery-electric equipment.
To offset energy costs, the company has invested BHD 3.8 million (USD 10 million) in a solar power project, installing 20,000 photovoltaic panels that generate 18.6 GWh of electricity annually, reducing carbon emissions by 65% and making the port energy self-sufficient.
To drive the adoption of standardized and cost-effective electric equipment, APM Terminals has launched a USD 60 million electrification pilot program across five container terminals, encouraging OEMs to produce competitively priced electric terminal tractors and reach stackers. Additionally, the Zero Emission Port Alliance (ZEPA), established in 2023, is fostering industry-wide standardization, increasing production capacity, and improving equipment interoperability.Recognizing the need for a skilled workforce, APM Terminals Bahrain is actively upskilling local talent through initiatives like the “Skill-Up” program.
This initiative is designed to equip employees with the technical expertise and market-relevant knowledge required to operate advanced systems and meet evolving industry demands. Furthermore, the company is expanding its on-site solar capacity and renewable energy infrastructure, reducing reliance on external power grids while securing a stable and sustainable energy supply.By implementing these strategies, APM Terminals Bahrain is successfully addressing the key hurdles in electrification, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and operational excellence.
How Is APM Terminals Bahrain Future-Proofing Its Services Through Digital Innovation?
To ensure its services remain future-proof, APM Terminals Bahrain is embracing automation and smart port technologies, including digital Terminal Operating Systems (TOS) to optimize cargo flow and AI-driven predictive maintenance to minimize downtime. The company is also focusing on data-driven decision-making with real-time analytics dashboards for energy consumption and emissions tracking.
Additionally, Gate Automation and Truck Appointment Systems are being implemented to reduce truck waiting times, decrease GHG tailpipe emissions, and enhance the efficient utilization of truck equipment. Digitalization efforts extend to customer interactions through paperless documentation, enhancing transparency and efficiency.
These initiatives reflect APM Terminals' commitment to integrating advanced technologies for sustainable operations.
How Does Automation Support APM Terminals’ Strategy for Efficiency and Cost Reduction?
Automation plays a pivotal role in APM Terminals' strategy to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs. Implementing automated gate systems accelerates truck turnaround time. The use of digital twin technology allows for simulation of port operations to identify optimization opportunities.
How is APM Terminals Bahrain differentiating itself in a competitive industry?
In a highly competitive industry, APM Terminals Bahrain distinguishes itself through several unique advantages. As the first fully solar-powered seaport in the region, it demonstrates leadership in sustainability. The company's early adoption of battery-electric container handling equipment and automation technologies showcases its commitment to innovation. Collaborations with strategic partners, such as the joint KAIZEN event with Alba Bahrain, highlight a dedication to continuous improvement. Furthermore, initiatives like the 'Beكن' leadership program underscore a commitment to talent development and align with Bahrain's Vision 2030 goals.
What is APM Terminals Bahrain’s growth strategy, and how does it contribute to Bahrain’s economic and industrial development?
APM Terminals Bahrain's growth strategy centers around four key pillars, as well as other strategic enables including decarbonization & renewable energy, electrification & digital transformation, talent development & workforce upskilling, and industry partnerships and infrastructure expansionIn the near future, APM Terminals (globally) plans to scale up solar capacity and battery storage, increase electrification of container handling equipment, deepen collaborations with global logistics players for green corridors, and implement AI-driven operational optimization tools. These initiatives aim to enhance sustainability, efficiency, and competitiveness in the evolving logistics landscape.
What initiatives is APM Terminals Bahrain undertaking to achieve net zero emissions by 2040?
With a substantial investment of $10 million, APM Terminals Bahrain aims to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2040. Specific initiatives include expanding solar power capacity to make KBSP the region's first fully solar-powered seaport, transitioning container handling equipment to electric models, exploring the use of green fuels such as biofuels and hydrogen for remaining diesel-based operations, and encouraging partners and suppliers to adopt net-zero shipping solutions. These efforts reflect the company's commitment to sustainability and align with global decarbonization goals.
What are APM Terminals' near-future plans?
Soon, APM Terminals plans to scale up solar capacity and battery storage, increase electrification of container handling equipment, deepen collaborations with global logistics players for green corridors, and implement AI-driven operational optimization tools. These initiatives aim to enhance sustainability, efficiency, and competitiveness in the evolving logistics landscape.
|
:To read the full content, click on the following link Robban Assafina, Issue 98, July/Aug 2025, Maritime Host, pg. 70 |
