Port Authority ‘drives’ down emissions

Port Authority of NSW has this week marked another major milestone in its long-term net zero targets, with the first two electric vehicles (EVs) joining its fleet in Newcastle.

The arrival heralds a staged transition of its operational vehicles, supporting the organisation’s target to reach Net Zero emissions by 2040 and achieve a 75 per cent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030. 

Replacing the two existing petrol vehicles in Newcastle with electric models is expected to save around 2,000 litres of fuel each year alone and reduce annual Scope 1 greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 5.5 tonnes – the equivalent of planting around 250 mature trees.

Chief Financial Officer Kristie Langley Gliddon said the rollout of EVs and EV charging infrastructure across Port Authority sites was part of a broader strategy to reduce emissions across the organisation.

“Transitioning our fleet to electric vehicles is one way we are cutting emissions, alongside other initiatives across our facilities and operations,” Ms Langley Gliddon said.

“Newcastle is leading the way, demonstrating how practical infrastructure upgrades, renewable energy and fleet changes come together to support our Strategy 2030 and Net Zero Roadmap.”

Newcastle and Yamba Harbour Master Vikas Bangia said the change delivered clear operational and environmental benefits.

“These vehicles are part of the tools our local teams use every day, so transitioning them to electric makes a real, practical difference,” Mr Bangia said.
“It reduces fuel use, cuts emissions and supports a more modern and sustainable way of operating at the port, while continuing to meet our operational needs here in Newcastle.”

The transition of the fleet builds on the installation of roof-top solar at the Newcastle Port Office in 2024 to generate power for its maritime operations, as well as Port Authority’s statewide use of 100 per cent certified renewable electricity.

Newcastle is the first Port Authority site to receive EV charging infrastructure, with operations centres in Port Kembla, Port Botany and Sydney set to be rolled out later this year with the replacement of additional fleet vehicles with EVs.

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