Zero-Emission Cargo Handling Equipment

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is actively working towards zero-emission cargo handling equipment (CHE) as part of the overall goal to reduce statewide emissions. To aide in this goal, CARB’s Technology Assessment for CHE reviews current technologies, anticipates future innovations, and identifies ongoing obstacles in this zero-emission transition. For those managing equipment at ports or intermodal rail yards, this assessment is significant because it influences both compliance timelines and practical implementation. 

Why the Technology Assessment Matters

Under Executive Order N-79-20, the governor directed CARB to develop strategies for implementing 100% zero-emissions off-road vehicles and equipment by 2035.  As part of this directive, ARB is evaluating whether the current CHE technology can support this goal.

The current assessment looks at:

• Current Options: Electric yard trucks, battery-powered forklifts, and emerging hydrogen fuel cell solutions.

• Performance Gaps: Can these technologies handle heavy-duty cycles, long shifts, and harsh port environments?

• Infrastructure Needs: Charging stations, hydrogen fueling, and grid capacity are critical pieces of the puzzle.

• Cost and Scalability: Upfront investment versus long-term savings, and whether manufacturers can meet demand.

This isn’t just a technical exercise—it’s a reality check that influences how quickly and aggressively CARB will enforce compliance with the zero-emission CHE regulation.

What Does This Mean for Your Business?

This assessment signals CARB is pursuing a combination of all electric equipment at port terminals, hybrid equipment at bulk terminals, and fuel cells and battery electric equipment at distribution centers. Electric and hydrogen-powered equipment are viable for many applications today, and improvements are accelerating. CARB also acknowledges challenges such as battery range, charging times, and infrastructure readiness to the feasibility of all electric equipment.

If you are an operator of CHE, this means:

• Early Planning Pays Off: Infrastructure projects take time. Start mapping out charging or fueling needs now.

• Watch for Incentives: CARB’s findings often drive funding programs like CORE and Carl Moyer to support adoption.

• Stay Informed: Technology readiness will shape compliance timelines. Engaging in CARB workshops gives you a voice in that process.

ALG’s Perspective

We see CARB’s technology assessment as a green light for strategic action. The transition is coming, and the technology is catching up fast. Companies that start planning now can avoid last-minute scrambles and position themselves as sustainability leaders.

Want to learn more?

Check out CARB’s current draft of the Technology Assessment, register for CARB’s latest public workshop to discuss this Technology Assessment (November 13th), or reach out to ALG’s team for guidance.