Saudi Global Ports expands capacity and elevates commitment to sustainable Port Ecosystems and new equipment

RIYADH : Saudi Global Ports (SGP), a member of the PSA Group, has recently received three quay cranes (QC) equipped with automation capabilities and photovoltaic panels, as well as three hybrid automated Rubber Tyre Gantry Cranes (RTG) at the King Abdulaziz Port Dammam (KAPD) in June.

These new equipment are part of SGP’s Phase 1 expansion plans under its 30-year concession agreement with the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani). They add to the fleet of 15 QCs and 47 RTGs that SGP currently operates. Notably, the new QCs have a minimum outreach of 25 rows, with the possibility of further extension – allowing SGP to handle larger next-generation 24,000 TEU vessels with productivity, ease and efficiency. When fully tested and commissioned in August this year, the new equipment would expand SGP’s handling capacity to 3.2 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs). 15 more hybrid RTGs are expected to be delivered in July.

In addition, SGP procured 80 electric prime movers (e-PMs) for use at the container terminals of KAPD. SGP and its vendor will also be developing the charging stations and providing relevant training to its employees to maintain and service the e-PMs and charging stations. The e-PMs and the accompanying infrastructure are expected to be ready by the end of October 2024, underscoring SGP’s commitment to stewarding greener and more innovative port ecosystem operations.

Regional CEO Europe & Mediterranean, and Middle East and South Asia Vincent Ng said: “SGP’s investment in greener equipment and machinery with automation capabilities aligns with the PSA Group’s commitment to fostering sustainable growth in the global maritime industry while delivering value to our stakeholders. This has been made possible with the support of Mawani and other port stakeholders in Saudi Arabia. It also exemplifies SGP’s approach towards innovative solutions and the continued training and development of its team.”