NWSA deploys second electric forklift at EB-1 Terminal

The Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) has reached a further milestone in its shift to zero-emission cargo handling with the arrival of its second battery-electric forklift at the East Blair One (EB-1) Terminal in Tacoma Harbor.

NWSA deploys second electric forklift at EB-1 Terminal

The deployment is funded through a $2.63 million award from the Washington State Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) 2023-2025 Port Electrification Grant Program.

The forklift is one of several pieces of zero-emission cargo handling equipment being rolled out at the breakbulk terminal, which is managed and operated by the NWSA.

The grant is funding one battery-electric heavy-duty 36,000-pound forklift, two battery-electric 8,000-pound forklifts, and associated charging infrastructure.

Dick Marzano, NWSA Co-Chair and Port of Tacoma Commission President, said “The arrival of our second electric forklift marks real progress in modernising operations at East Blair One and reducing emissions from cargo handling activities. These investments help us improve air quality, support the health of our workforce and neighboring communities, and move closer to our long-term vision of being a zero-emission gateway.”

The electric forklifts are replacing diesel-powered equipment that has historically been among the most heavily utilised at the terminal.

As the new machine enters service, the NWSA expects measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and diesel pollution, supporting the goals of Washington state’s Climate Commitment Act and Healthy Environment for All Act.

Ryan Calkins, NWSA Co-Chair and Port of Seattle Commission President, stated: “We appreciate the state’s investment in port electrification and its recognition of the important role ports play in advancing Washington’s climate goals. This funding is helping us accelerate the deployment of zero-emission technologies that support both a competitive supply chain and a healthier environment.”