Reflections on AAPA 2024: Advancing sustainable port operations

Maite Bolivar Klarup, Commercial Director, e1 Marine

APPA Annual Convention

The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) 2024 Annual Convention and Expo, held in Boston from 27-30 October 2024, was one of the year’s most important gatherings for port and maritime industry leaders. With over 820 attendees representing 90 ports across the U.S., Canada, Latin America, and the Caribbean, the event showcased the strides being made to address challenges and embrace opportunities in improving port operations and sustainability.

This year’s Convention served as a vital platform for driving collaboration, exploring innovative technologies, and aligning strategies to accelerate the energy transition in ports. As a new member of AAPA, it was inspiring for e1 Marine to join a breadth of discussions where reoccurring themes emphasized the importance of taking a holistic approach to operational, regulatory, and financial challenges so that ports can position themselves as leaders in supply chain decarbonization. 

Decarbonization and electrification

The National Zero-Emission Freight Corridor Strategy was a key focus, promoting the development of electric and hydrogen refuelling infrastructure along U.S. freight corridors. Panellists highlighted the urgency of moving from diesel-powered equipment to sustainable alternatives such as electric and hybrid solutions, as well as the challenges of electrification, from grid capacity to funding requirements. However, public-private partnerships and government incentives, such as the EPA’s $3 billion Clean Ports Program, were identified as critical pathways to overcome finance and infrastructure challenges.

It was encouraging to see ports demonstrating such a strong commitment to innovation, addressing the costs of electrification and infrastructure upgrades. e1 Marine’s methanol-to-hydrogen generator technology aligns seamlessly with these efforts, offering a reliable, scalable, and cost-effective solution to generate clean, on-demand fuel-cell grade hydrogen onsite efficiently and safely, without overburdening existing grid systems.

Collaboration across the supply chain

Another common message at AAPA 2024 was that no single entity can drive the maritime sector’s transformation alone. Collaboration between ports, shipping companies, regulators, and technology providers is essential to overcoming challenges and implementing sustainable solutions. At e1 Marine, we recognize that partnerships are the cornerstone of progress, and we are committed to contributing our expertise in methanol-to-hydrogen generator technology to support these efforts.

Looking ahead: e1 Marine’s commitment

The insights gained at AAPA 2024 reinforce the need for practical, immediate solutions to reduce emissions. e1 Marine’s hydrogen generator technology answers this need, deliveringsignificant greenhouse gas reductions, while also enhancing operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

As the maritime industry advances its decarbonization journey, e1 Marine stands ready to partner with ports and operators, providing innovative solutions tailored to their needs. We look forward to participating at AAPA 2025 POWERS Summit and Expo in Tampa from 20-22January 2025 and continuing the dialogue on how we can collectively drive the transition to a greener, more sustainable future. 

If you’d like to learn more about our technology or explore collaboration opportunities, contact us today.