PSA Penn Terminals capital expansion plan transitioning to electrification to boost efficiency and improve environmental footprint.

Wedged between ports in Wilmington, Philadelphia, and Camden, PSA Penn Terminals makes it a point to stay ahead in the Delaware River cargo shuffle.

The Eddystone, PA facility, owned by Singapore global port operator and logistics giant PSA International, is undertaking a capital expansion plan designed to transition it to electrification while improving efficiency. PSA Penn Terminals handles a diverse array of container, breakbulk, project cargo, and reefer cargo.

“With expanded crane capacity, the terminal is well-positioned to support growing cargo volumes while maintaining efficiency and reliability for shipping lines and cargo owners,” said John Brennan, president and CEO of PSA Penn Terminals. “We operate in a highly competitive environment, surrounded by well-established ports, requiring continuous investment in efficiency, infrastructure, and customer service. PSA Penn Terminals embraces this challenge by prioritizing strategic investments in our people, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship.”

“Without the complexities of a landlord-port model, we can make strategic investments more efficiently, adapting swiftly to customer needs and industry trends. This flexibility enables us to continuously enhance our operations, expand capacity, and introduce sustainable solutions, ensuring that we remain a reliable and forward-thinking partner for our customers.”

Last year was a banner year for PSA Penn Terminals. In September, the port received its third Liebherr STS crane, complementing the two commissioned in 2018. During the year, Penn posted a “solid performance” of 357,000 TEUs. Additionally, he said PSA Penn Terminals underwent a rigorous audit process, earning both PrimusGFS and CCOF Organic Certification.

The port also launched a multi-phase capital expansion plan. The focus is transitioning from a reach-stacker model to an Electric Rubber-Tyred Gantry (eRTG) system. The first phase of this upgrade will be completed in 2025, Brennan said, significantly increasing throughput within its existing footprint. Future phases will continue to enhance capacity in response to growing customer demand.

Alongside the installation of the eRTGs, the terminal is installing a reefer container racking system, designed with a 7-deep by 5-high configuration, across 10 bays. This setup will accommodate 350 refrigerated containers, Brennan said.

In addition to the eRTG upgrade, PSA Penn Terminals plans to switch from its current fleet of jockey trucks to Electric Prime Movers (ePMs). PSA Penn Terminals’ electricity is sourced entirely from renewable energy, Brennan said which ensures the shift to electric-powered operations delivers real environmental benefits.

“By replacing diesel-powered vehicles with electric alternatives, we will significantly reduce our overall environmental footprint. While the initial investment is substantial, the long-term benefits, including lower maintenance and energy costs, make ePMs a sustainable choice for the future,” Brennan said.