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Global engineering group Cavotec says it has won multiple orders for its Alternative Maritime Power (AMP) shore-to-ship electrical power systems at the Port of Los Angeles. These projects follow several orders for similar systems throughout California.

“These orders are the latest in a collaboration with local partners and Port of Los Angeles that spans many years, and underlines Cavotec’s role as an established supplier of shore power equipment in the US and globally,” said Rob Thompson, West Coast Manager Cavotec USA Inc.

Cavotec will supply a large number of "Easy Lift" Access Covers and Shore Power Outlet Connection boxes for four separate container terminals at the port. These orders include equipment for berths 228, 401-406, 100-102, 121-128 and 212-216 at the Port of Los Angeles.

According to Cavotec, the group's "Easy Lift" Access Covers are safer for personnel to operate than many existing alternatives. An example of the cross-implementation of technology between Cavotec Market Units, these systems were first developed for use at airports and other aviation related applications. The units avoid operator stress and injury by reducing lift weights to a minimum. They are built into the quayside to enable vessels to connect to grid-generated electrical power quickly and easily.

“These, and other shore power projects on which we are currently working, are a reminder of the growing trend, especially in the US and Europe, towards tighter legislation regulating emissions at ports. We continue to work closely with our partners to ensure that ports meet their environmental targets,” Thompson added.

Cavotec AMP systems enable vessels to switch off their engines while docked and to connect to shore side electricity. Services such as power supply for reefer containers, lighting, heating, food preparation and cargo handling are then run directly from the port.

Switching off ships’ engines and connecting to grid-generated electricity reduces fuel consumption and dramatically cuts particulate matter emissions, thus helping improve air quality in ports and surrounding communities.

Cavotec engineers and naval architects have pioneered several AMP solutions including ship-based systems housed in shipping containers, land-based vault versions and mobile units. The group’s shore power systems are being widely used at ports on the US west coast, as well as in Canada, Europe and the Far East. The first Cavotec AMP system became operational in Sweden in 1984.