US company SeaCube has partnered with Greensee to redefine sustainability in the reefer shipping transport sector, introducing SeaCube’s green and net-zero reefer leases, powered by Greensee’s AI-driven CO2 emissions reporting technology.
SeaCube is also working with transport temperature control solutions provider Thermo King and CMA CGM to field-test Thermo King’s E-Coolzero emission technology PAC electric genset, one of the first battery-powered refrigerated container gensets in the US. This zero-emission battery power technology allows electrification of refrigerated transport. The Thermo King E-Coolpac offers a range of battery modules, as well as extension packs to deliver power ranging from 35kWh to 105kWh and can be fitted or retrofitted to marine container chassis, where a traditional diesel genset can currently fit. The e-genset offers:
- Zero CO2 and particulate emissions during operation.
- Renewable energy charging compatibility, further reducing the carbon footprint.
- Compatibility with Thermo King marine refrigeration units including CFF and Magnum Plus, as well as other brands of ISO1496-2 reefer units.
Fabien Gresy-Aveline, VP Container Fleet, CMA CGM, said: “This e-genset is a game-changer for our operations. By transitioning away from diesel, we are taking a significant step toward more sustainable refrigerated transport.”
Gregory Tuthill, CCO SeaCube Containers, added: “As a global leader in refrigerated intermodal equipment leasing, SeaCube is dedicated to investing in transformative sustainability solutions. These initiatives not only help customers meet their rigorous sustainability targets but also significantly reduce the carbon footprint of refrigerated transport.”
Claudio Zanframundo, president Thermo King EMEA Truck, Trailer, Bus and Global Marine, Rail and Air, said: “Providing electric solutions for refrigerated transportation is part of Thermo King’s and Trane Technologies’ overall approach to reducing carbon emissions. E-COOLPAC is a diesel genset alternative power source for reefers when they are not connected to grid or vessel power. It allows for lower emissions and adherence to local regulations when transporting refrigerated marine containers from ports to distribution centres, or those involved in daily reefer container transport.”
Refrigerated containers account for about 10% of a ship’s container capacity but can consume some 20-30% of a vessel’s total power output, contributing significantly to CO2 emissions. SeaCube’s Green Reefer Leases address this challenge by providing access to energy analytics and optimised asset designs, including:
- Refrigerated containers equipped with next-generation controllers, enhanced telematics, and efficient compressors.
- Real-time data analytics to optimise refrigeration operations, accounting for variables such as ambient temperature, cargo type and tradelane.
- Energy savings and emissions reductions of up to 20%, delivering tangible sustainability and cost benefits.
Pacific International Lines (PIL) is also participating in a GHG reporting and reefer fleet optimization pilot sponsored by SeaCube and Greensee. This initiative will establish baseline metrics for decarbonisation benchmarking while identifying opportunities for fuel savings and operational efficiency.
Lim Chee Wei, GM Logistics Division, PIL, said: “Effective GHG reporting for refrigerated transportation contributes to providing PIL with good visibility on our emissions, helps us meet regulatory requirements, and supports our long-term goal of achieving net zero GHG emissions by 2050.”
SeaCube’s Net-Zero Reefer Leases enable customers to offset any remaining carbon emissions from transportation. Using precise calculations, SeaCube quantifies total emissions and offers customers the option to neutralise their impact through carbon credits.
Image: E-Genset on container (credit: SeaCube)
