Eight new hybrid Straddle Carriers, as part of the new growth phase of the Port of Thessaloniki, upgrade its service levels, storage capacity and energy efficiency.
ThPA S.A. has received and is commissioning into operation eight new hybrid diesel-electric Straddle Carriers, further renewing the mechanical equipment of the Container Terminal, in parallel with the progress of the Pier 6 expansion project, and strengthening the operational capabilities of the Port of Thessaloniki.
The new equipment procurement is part of ThPA S.A.’s broader investment program for the continuous upgrading and modernization of the Port of Thessaloniki, aiming to increase efficiency, improve the service quality of cargo handling and enhance its competitiveness. Since 2018, ThPA S.A. has already modernized its mechanical equipment through the procurement of twelve Straddle Carriers, one new Mobile Harbour Crane, and two new specially designed New Panamax STS cranes, capable of serving mainline vessels with a capacity of over 10,000 TEU.
The new Straddle Carriers, manufactured in Europe and featuring hybrid technology, achieve higher energy efficiency, an 18% reduction in fuel consumption, and lower pollutant emissions. In this way, they contribute to the gradual transition of the Port of Thessaloniki towards a more environmentally responsible operating model, while also enhancing the operational capabilities and autonomy required for the seamless operation of the Container Terminal.
The operational contribution of the investment is particularly significant. Integrating the new machinery into the Port’s Straddle Carrier fleet will modernize the container transport and stacking equipment, and will substantially enhance the storage capacity of the Container Terminal yard. The new Straddle Carriers allow for more efficient use of the available space, thanks to their ability to stack containers at more levels in height. In addition, they help expedite service for both trucks and container vessels, boosting the overall productivity of the Container Terminal and reducing wait and service times. This upgrade has a direct impact on cargo flows, gate decongestion and the overall experience of the Port’s users and partners.
The Chief Executive Officer of ThPA S.A., Dr. Ioannis Tsaras, stated: “The procurement of the eight new Straddle Carriers constitutes an additional decisive step towards preparing the Port of Thessaloniki for its next growth phase and yet another investment with the strategic objective of continuously modernizing its infrastructure and operations. We are rendering our mechanical equipment more modern, more efficient, and more sustainable to improve the productivity of the Container Terminal in an environment of increasing demand for faster, reliable, and environmentally more responsible port services. Through the consistent implementation of investments in infrastructure, equipment and technology, ThPA S.A. strengthens Thessaloniki’s position as a modern trade and logistics hub for Southeastern Europe.”
