State Controller Malia Cohen attended the launch of the new all-electric mobile harbor crane system at the Port of San Diego, the only dockside lifting machine of its kind in the United States.
Cohen participated in the event along with Assemblymember Tasha Boerner (D-Encinitas) and Randa Coniglio the Acting Port Chief Executive Officer.
The Port of San Diego is transitioning its industrial activities to advance the state’s clean energy goals, have a great economic impact, and improve the air quality to nearby neighborhoods. The port installed two Generation 6 Mobile Harbor Cranes at the port’s Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal (TAMT), the first-ever in the nation’s history. State and local leaders, partners stakeholders, and community members attending the celebration witnessed a demonstration of the crane’s system capabilities.
Cohen, who is also chair of the State Lands Commission, was optimistic about the health and environmental impact of the new development.
“These new cranes will advance the state’s clean energy goals while amplifying the Port’s tremendous economic impact on the San Diego County region,” said Cohen.
“I believe that with continued investments in innovative clean energy infrastructure, workforce development, and job training, paired with ongoing meaningful community engagement and inclusion, and collaborative leadership, we can build a better tomorrow with thriving communities, a sustainable economy, and a vibrant port industry,” she added.
Frank Urtasun, chairman of the Port of San Diego and board of Port Commissioners, said that the new all-electric cranes meet the agency’s dual-focused maritime missions to have cleaner air and deliver goods for communities in the region.
“We’re improving air quality, driving commerce, and supporting good jobs. Everybody wins,” said Urtasun.
The newly installed cranes are replacing the Port’s former diesel-powered crane. This transition is a step toward achieving one of the Port’s goals as part of the Maritime Clean Air Strategy (MCAS). The Port is working to replace all cargo handling equipment to zero emissions by 2030.
