A Landmark in Renewable Energy
In an ambitious move to prioritize sustainability, the Port of Long Beach, California, has unveiled a state-of-the-art renewable energy project — a “Tri-gen” power facility. This significant achievement is the product of collaboration between Toyota Motor North America and FuelCell Energy. The facility stands as the nation’s first of its kind, creating renewable hydrogen, electricity, and water from biogas. Biogas harnessed from California’s landfills is the key ingredient that fuels the Tri-gen system, allowing it to produce up to 1,200 kg of hydrogen per day. This quantity satisfies the fuel requirements of both Toyota’s revolutionary Mirai fuel cell electric vehicles and the heavy-duty trucks that are integral to port operations.
Adjacent to the Tri-gen system, a hydrogen refueling station has been established to enhance the operational efficiency of the port. Moreover, the generated renewable electricity contributes to powering Toyota’s largest North American vehicle processing center. Furthermore, the Tri-gen facility’s commitment to sustainability extends to water reclamation; the system is designed to repurpose up to 1,400 gallons of water byproduct daily. This recycled water is used for washing vehicles, potentially saving around half a million gallons of local water resources each year and thus making a substantial impact on regional water conservation efforts.
Economic and Environmental Synergy
The Tri-gen system at the Port of Long Beach marks a significant environmental advancement, aligning with Toyota’s sustainability goals to cut CO2 emissions, as noted by VP Tom Stricker. This eco-friendly milestone is projected to trim 9,000 tons of CO2 and reduce nitrogen oxide levels annually, fostering a clearer, healthier local atmosphere.
Mayor Rex Richardson and Port CEO Mario Cordero inaugurated the facility, underscoring their dedication to green energy and a zero-emissions future. FuelCell Energy CEO Jason Few highlights the system’s dual benefits: easing power grid loads and promoting green port operations.
The Port of Long Beach is at the forefront with the Tri-gen system, which is critical to a larger vision for a sustainable transition. It meets urgent environmental demands and showcases how tech innovation can transform the energy and transport sectors into a more eco-friendly realm.
