The Port of Long Beach is investing in new technology to protect itself against potential future electrical outages caused by threats such as storms, in order to keep the supply chain moving.
The US$7.1m “microgrid” – helped by a $5m grant from the California Energy Commission – will provide the US’ second largest port with a clean, reliable supply of electricity for critical operations. The project includes a solar carport at the Port’s security centre, a stationary storage system and a mobile storage system that can be dispatched around the Port in lieu of diesel generators in case of an outage.
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As part of the project, the Port will compile and analyse 12 months of performance data, and make that information available to other California seaports.
The goal of the California Energy Commission’s grant is to accelerate the development of microgrids, which are seen as important tools for improving the effectiveness of renewable energy. And, because they offer a means of isolating from the grid, microgrids can improve participation in utilities’ demand response programmes, where users agree to limit energy use during peak periods.
“Ensuring a stable supply of energy is crucial to the zero-emissions future the Harbor Commission envisions for the Port of Long Beach,” says Long Beach board of harbor commissioners president Tracy Egoscue. “We welcome this microgrid technology demonstration in Long Beach.”
Port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero, adds: “Our terminals are increasingly using electric equipment to move cargo and we will need to build more energy resiliency into these operations. This project will help us learn more about how to keep the power, and cargo, flowing.”
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By GlobalDataLast month the Port launched a pilot project aimed at enhancing advance planning. The two month Port Optimizer project will see stakeholders use GE Transportation’s software to access data that will allow them to move cargo containers more efficiently.
