Electric cars support sustainable operations

The Port of Newcastle has taken delivery of four Hyundai Ioniq electric cars and aims to have 13 by the end of 2021, to cut its carbon emissions by 48t annually.

Port of Newcastle Chief Commercial Officer Simon Byrnes said: “Switching to electric vehicles will save more than 48 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.”

Through a partnership with City of Newcastle, the Port is also sponsoring two electric vehicle charging stations located near its head office on Wharf Road.

The 22-kilowatt chargers – collectively enabling four vehicles to be plugged in simultaneously – are powered by 100% renewable energy. They will initially be free before user-pay fees are later introduced.

Mr Byrnes added: “It is a pleasure to partner with the City of Newcastle to help expand its electric vehicle charging network and promote renewable energy and sustainable transport options in the region,” Mr Byrnes said.

“Port of Newcastle is serious about its commitment to the environment and creating a prosperous future for the communities it supports. Ultimately, we are striving to create a safe, sustainable and socially responsible Port for the future.”

Earlier this year, Port of Newcastle became the first port in Australia or New Zealand to be certified under the EcoPorts Port Environmental Review System (PERS).