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The basics:

• 7.2MW solar canopy now generates half of Port Newark Container Terminal’s energy needs
• System covers 7.8 acres with minimal ground impact to operations
• Supports Port Authority’s, PNCT’s net-zero goals
• Energy can feed into the local utility grid when surplus occurs

A major solar project at the East Coast’s busiest seaport is complete.

The 7.2-megawatt installation at Port Newark Container Terminal (PNCT) now generates 50% of the terminal’s annual energy needs. Notably, 7.8 acres of elevated solar canopies generate that amount of solar energy, which altogether occupy just 1,500 square feet of ground space.

The design enables that robust solar generation without sacrificing land for terminal operations. In fact, the project won an award for its ingenuity in navigating complex conditions without disrupting daily operations.

“This project is a win for Newark residents, a win for the environment, and a win for our seaport,” said Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Chairman Kevin O’Toole.

Key things to know:

• In addition to generating power for terminal operations, the system can feed excess power into the regional utility grid
• PNCT is one of the world’s only container terminals to implement in-terminal renewable energy production of this scale
• Part of PNCT’s broader goals to develop a net-zero emission energy microgrid; meanwhile aligning with Port Authority’s net-zero goals
• Designed, constructed and implemented without disrupting terminal operations
• PNCT has a dashboard that monitors the system’s real-time energy generation

“By working hand-in-hand with PNCT and the city of Newark, our seaport is now home to a large solar energy project capable of generating significant energy for one of its major container terminals while feeding excess power into the local grid,” said O’Toole. “It’s an extraordinary model of how we can work together for the betterment not just of our own facilities – but for the communities we serve as well.”

A step forward

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka noted the city’s and PNCT’s long appreciated interdependence and shared history.

“What affects one affects the other, and we have worked together to solve challenges across every aspect of city life,” said Baraka. “Today we celebrate an astounding success with this micro-grid that improves our environment, health, and economy, increases our sustainable energy resources, and puts at the pinnacle of yet another global solution.”

Baraka stressed that all of Newark is grateful for PNCT’s “responsible leadership and innovation.”

PNCT President and CEO Jim Pelliccio echoed those sentiments.

“PNCT and Mayor Baraka, working together with the Port Authority, have been relentless in partnering for responsible expansion of the port to meet the shipping needs of our growing regional and national economy – without sacrificing the health and well-being of our neighbors,” said Pelliccio. “Our investments in sustainability have set the groundwork for an ambitious vision to transform the future of Port Newark – setting unparalleled standards for efficiency, environmental responsibility and economic prosperity.”

Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton said, “PNCT’s impressive solar installation marks a major step forward in the Port of New York and New Jersey’s steadfast transition to cleaner, more sustainable operations.”