ReachStacker to support sustainable ports project in Rotterdam

The delivery formed part of a major Dutch hydrogen innovation project, supported by the EU, to help assess lower-emission solutions for heavy-duty materials handling applications.

The Hyster RSJ46-33XDH/62 ReachStacker will support operations in Europe’s largest dedicated shortsea shipping hub, primarily handling 45 ft containers, including open-top containers. To support these requirements, it is equipped with a specialised 45 ft spreader and is powered by a Nuvera 60 kW fuel cell engine that converts hydrogen into electricity to support a 130 kW/h lithium-ion battery. It also incorporates the standardised Hyster software architecture used across other Hyster electric products, helping to provide a common operator experience, diagnostics platform and service approach.

"Ports and terminals are under increasing pressure to lower emissions without compromising performance," explained Lucien Robroek, President of Global Big Trucks, Hyster. "Hydrogen fuel cell technology has the potential to play an important role in applications where equipment must combine zero tailpipe emissions with the power and uptime required for intensive container handling. Working alongside RST and the wider project team will help further our understanding of how this technology can support the future needs of the industry."

The ReachStacker has been supplied by Hyster and local authorised Hyster dealer Heffiq as part of a five-year innovation project supported by the Province of South Holland and the Just Transition Fund (JTF). Rotterdam Shortsea Terminals, Berkman Energie Services, Hyster, STC Next, and HarbourHUB are joining forces within the JTF programme to make port logistics more sustainable. Together, they are developing a unique field lab in which two key innovations will be demonstrated: a modular hydrogen refuelling station and a hydrogen-powered ReachStacker developed in the Netherlands.

This living lab demonstrates how hydrogen can be effectively integrated into logistics and industrial processes independently of the electricity grid. The ReachStacker deployment will also enable RST to gain practical operational experience with hydrogen-powered container handling equipment in its demanding port environments.

“For us, sustainability is not just an ambition for the future; it is about the choices we make today,” commented Arno Storm, CEO of RST. “This hydrogen refuelling station and hydrogen fuel cell-powered ReachStacker allow us to explore the transition in practice. We want to play our part, learn along the way and contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future for the generations to come.”

Local authorised dealer Heffiq will support the ReachStacker through its established service infrastructure and expertise in port and terminal applications, while Hyster experts will work alongside the dealer and customer throughout the project.

"RST has been a valued Heffiq and Hyster customer for many years, and we are proud to support them on this next step in their sustainability journey," stated Martijn Veerkamp, Commercial Director of Heffiq. "Projects like this depend on strong collaboration between customers, technology providers and service partners. By combining our local expertise with Hyster innovations and RST's operational knowledge, we have been able to deliver a pioneering solution that will generate meaningful insights by working in a live terminal environment."

The partners in the JTF programme are investing in human capital as well as technological innovation. In a joint experience centre, employees, students, and logistics professionals will be trained for the energy transition and in the safe and efficient use of hydrogen. The project, which is co-funded by the EU, directly contributes to carbon dioxide reduction, future regulations, standardisation, and a better energy balance within ports. In doing so, it provides a powerful impetus for the sustainable transformation of port logistics in Rotterdam and beyond.

“South Holland is at the forefront of the energy transition, and innovative projects like this hydrogen fuel cell-powered ReachStacker keep us there," said Jeroen van Dijken, South Holland Provincial Executive. "We are creating opportunities to accelerate innovation by bringing together pioneering companies, educational institutions, and public partners. This strengthens our regional economy and prepares our workforce for the industries of the future. The knowledge gained through this initiative will reinforce South Holland's position as a leading hub for sustainable logistics and clean energy development."

Read the article online at: https://www.globalhydrogenreview.com/hydrogen/01102026/reachstacker-to-support-sustainable-ports-project-in-rotterdam/