Sustainability: Jacksonville

JAXPORT Berth Goes Electric as New Cranes Approach

A multi-faceted rehabilitation of Berth 35 at the Jacksonville Port Authority’s Blount Island Marine Terminal is nearing completion with the installation of a high-voltage electrical system in anticipation of the arrival this month of three new 100-gauge electric container cranes.

The improvements increase energy efficiencies, reduce emissions from diesel-powered cranes and enhance nighttime operations through new high-powered LED lighting. Berth 35’s new electrical system includes an on-site transformer substation and a $1 million switchgear building to feed each crane’s power needs. The 100-gauge cranes will work on regenerative power, consuming power during the lifting of containers and creating energy as they are lowered.

"Berth 35 will offer JAXPORT’s current and future customers even more efficient operations and increased capabilities," said Roy Schleicher, JAXPORT Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. "The rehabilitation project is a major step forward in our $100 million investment in building the port of the future."

The new cranes at Berth 35 will be operational by the end of the year.

View photos of the new cranes.