The Nagoya Port Authority recently initiated the deployment of fuel-cell forklifts to encourage the broader adoption of fuel-cell-powered industrial vehicles at container terminals and other facilities.
According to the Japan International Freight Forwarders Association (JIFFA), these forklifts were provided to a container terminal operator and private businesses operating at Japan’s Port of Nagoya. The initiative also included operating hydrogen refuelling stations and exploring efficient methods for hydrogen delivery within port and harbour areas.
Led by Suzuki Shokan, a Tokyo-based gas company, the project supplied four fuel-cell forklifts to Tobishima Container Berth, a terminal operator, as well as to logistics companies Asahi Unyu Kaisha, Shinko Kaiun, Kamigumi, and Toyo Butsuryu. The forklifts were fueled with hydrogen during operations over five days from 26 to 30 August.
Since hydrogen refuelling involves a one-day preparation period to accumulate the fuel, it was supplied every other day throughout the project. Delivery was carefully scheduled to coincide with periods of low truck traffic and reduced forklift activity, minimizing disruption.
To meet legal requirements, hydrogen refuelling areas must be located at a safe distance from nearby structures such as sheds. During the project, refuelling was conducted in parking lots and other unused spaces.
The findings highlighted the importance of early discussions to identify suitable locations for hydrogen refuelling infrastructure as a critical step toward broader implementation.