Transportation
Connecting people, places and economies through sustainable, resilient and digitally enabled transportation solutions.
Enabling a more resilient and sustainable Great Lakes port
Developing a comprehensive electrification strategy to modernize operations, cut emissions and future-proof port infrastructure
Ports are under increasing pressure to balance operational efficiency with decarbonization, all while adapting to shifting market demands and climate impacts. At the Port of Cleveland, a critical Great Lakes hub, aging diesel-powered equipment, constrained budgets and seasonal shipping limitations present additional challenges. To remain competitive while reducing impacts on surrounding communities, the port is pursuing a shift toward lower-carbon operations. The electrification master plan introduces a clear roadmap to transition cargo handling equipment, cranes and vessels away from fossil fuels, while exploring shore power solutions to eliminate emissions from docked ships. By rethinking how energy is generated, delivered and used, the project is enabling a more sustainable and resilient future for port operations.
Jacobs is leading the development of a comprehensive electrification master plan, acting as a strategic advisor to guide the port’s transition to low‑carbon operations and supporting its long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Combining advanced modeling, engineering and stakeholder engagement, we analyzed fleet operations as well as energy use and emissions to define a phased approach for converting diesel equipment to battery-electric and hydrogen alternatives, while also assessing renewable energy integration and grid capacity needs. Jacobs delivered a full basis of design for charging infrastructure, utility upgrades and supporting facilities, ensuring long-term operability. Through collaboration with local utilities and funding partners, the plan establishes a viable path to secure power supply and investment — positioning the Port of Cleveland as a leader in sustainable maritime operations and a model for ports across the Great Lakes.
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Port Energy Transition & Decarbonization
Accelerating port decarbonization while modernizing infrastructure and strengthening competitiveness.
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Explore news
Jacobs to lead clean energy planning for Maine port electrification project
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is funding an initiative to help the Maine Department of Transportation reach zero-emissions goals at four ports.
Charting a path toward a decarbonized future for the Port of Cleveland
We’re working with the Port of Cleveland on a comprehensive electrification master plan for a more connected, sustainable future.
How the Western Hemisphere’s busiest container port got digital
What if we showed you how Jacobs and Port of Los Angeles dove into digital intelligence and automation on its competitive path to achieving record-setting cargo operations?.
