Tandem and Maersk successfully test deployment of electric gensets for refrigerated containers.
In a push toward developing decarbonized trucking alternatives in cold chain transportation, Tandem, Inc. (Tandem) announces the successful completion of a pilot program to test the use of electric generator sets (gensets) to power refrigerated containers. This pilot program was completed in collaboration with A.P. Moller-Maersk’s Innovation Center and Cold Chain product team (Maersk).
The electric gensets, Tandem PowerPacks, are modular racks that help drive low-emission cold chain operations when connected to existing tractors and trailers. Tandem developed PowerPacks as a more decarbonized alternative to diesel generators, which traditionally produce heavy nitrogen oxides (NOx) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
The pilot program took place over four weeks at a Performance Team – A Maersk Company cold storage facility in Texas during the summer of 2023. Success of the proof of concept was based on four criteria: cost reduction compared to diesel-powered refrigerated containers (target 50%), emission reduction (target 100%), continuous power and infrastructure compatibility.
Results:
- Cost Reduction: During the pilot program, the hourly fuel cost for the PowerPack was notably lower (more than 50%) than the diesel-powered refrigerated container. Decreased maintenance and downtime further contributed to operational cost savings.
- Reduced GHG emissions
- Continuous Power: The PowerPack provided uninterrupted power for a full-day cycle, enabling five round trips to the port without recharging.
- Infrastructure Compatibility: The PowerPack was successfully charged using existing plugs in the facility yard, eliminating the need for costly high-voltage systems.
“We strive to design electrified products that benefit the environment, make economic sense and seamlessly integrate into operations,” said Paul Sabatini, Co-founder and President of Tandem. “We now have a proven solution that is the next generation of port refrigeration.”
“Our collaboration with Tandem underscores the power of partnerships in driving innovation,” said Erez Agmoni, Head of Innovation Logistics & Services at Maersk. “I look forward to continuing our work together to test concepts that can reduce the environmental impact of supply chains in the future.”
Appendix, General Info, Links
PowerPack Overview
- The PowerPack is a plug and play electric genset compatible with refrigerated containers
- Weight of PowerPack used during the pilot: 850 lb. (weight of diesel genset: 2,273 lbs.)
- Can replace 2,300+ gallons of diesel per container per year as observed during the pilot program
- Technology is ready to deploy at scale immediately
