In a recent interview with Dom Magli from Port Technology International, Crijn Bouman, the CEO and Co-Founder of Rocsys, laid out a bold vision for the future of ports and terminals, emphasizing the critical role of electrification and decarbonization in the maritime sector. Bouman’s insights underscore a pivotal shift that is not just about going electric; it’s about rethinking how operations are conducted in a world that demands efficiency and safety.
The ROC-1, touted as the world’s first hands-free charging solution, stands to revolutionize how electric vehicles (EVs) are integrated into port operations. Bouman pointed out that the hands-free aspect of the ROC-1 allows for seamless charging of Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Vehicles (AVs), alleviating the burden of manual charging. This is especially crucial in an industry grappling with a driver shortage. With the advent of autonomous terminal tractors, the ROC-1 could play a key role in addressing operational challenges while enhancing reliability. Bouman articulated a compelling case for its implementation: “You will always know that when the vehicle is parked, it’s connected, and therefore will always be charging.” This reliability is vital for terminals that operate around the clock, where energy consumption is high, and downtime can be costly.
Safety is another major concern in port operations, and Bouman highlighted how the ROC-1 mitigates risks associated with drivers maneuvering around heavy machinery to plug in vehicles. “Some of our customers choose to work with us for this very reason,” he noted, emphasizing that reducing the need for drivers to walk around vehicles significantly enhances safety protocols.
The conversation naturally shifted to the broader implications of electrification on carbon emissions. Bouman asserted that while the maritime industry may not transition to zero-emission ships overnight, a significant portion of shore-side operations can be electrified. He pointed out that everything from terminal trucks to straddle carriers can make the leap toward electric, potentially paving the way for a zero-emission operation on land. This focus on short-term emission cuts is not just a theoretical exercise; it’s a practical necessity in an industry facing increasing scrutiny over its environmental impact.
Rocsys is already making strides in this direction through collaborations with industry giants like Hyster and Taylor. Bouman revealed that they are working on electric terminal trucks and large forklifts equipped with hands-free charging connections, addressing both safety concerns and operational efficiency. Moreover, Rocsys has joined the Zero Emission Port Alliance (ZEPA), which aims to establish standards for zero-emission equipment across ports. This initiative is crucial for ensuring that the transition to electrification can scale rapidly, making it a collective effort rather than a series of isolated projects.
Bouman’s outlook on electrification in the maritime industry is optimistic. He noted that every port in the Western world is currently engaged in decarbonization efforts, spurred by regulatory frameworks and funding initiatives like the EPA Clean Ports program in the U.S. The push for electrification is not just a trend; it’s becoming a necessity driven by policy and public expectation. Bouman believes that within the next five years, electric vehicles will become standard in newly purchased equipment, driven by pressure from companies demanding lower carbon footprints from their supply chain partners.
Looking ahead, Rocsys has ambitious plans for the remainder of 2024, focusing on deploying their solutions in various ports and collaborating with more terminal tractor manufacturers. Bouman’s extensive experience in the EV sector positions Rocsys at the forefront of this transformation, and his vision for an integrated, efficient, and safe port operation is not just a dream—it’s a rapidly approaching reality. As the maritime industry grapples with the challenges of decarbonization, the innovations from companies like Rocsys could very well shape the future of how goods are moved around the globe.
