Port Newark Container Terminal Expands Propane Fleet, Reducing Maintenance Downtime and Lowering Emissions

NEWARK, N.J. (November 9, 2026) — Port Newark Container Terminal (PNCT) is adding 34 propane-powered yard tractors to its operations, more than doubling its propane fleet as it works to phase out legacy diesel equipment, reduce maintenance downtime, and advance its emissions goals. With the additional units in service, propane will power more than 84% of PNCT’s yard tractor fleet.

PNCT has increasingly relied on propane terminal tractors to move container traffic across its facility since beginning the transition in 2024, successfully cutting emissions and noise while avoiding the maintenance downtime and costly filters typical of modern diesel equipment. Their continued investment in propane equipment shows how terminal operators can achieve cleaner, more reliable operations without full-scale electrification or operational disruption.

“At PNCT, we view propane as an important part of our long-term equipment and sustainability strategy,” Charlie Ferlisi, Director of Engineering & Equipment Services at Port Newark Container Terminal said. “Adding these 34 units moves us significantly closer to phasing out legacy diesel units entirely.”

Propane gives operators the heavy-duty performance and simplified maintenance they need on the terminal floor without relying on fragile electric infrastructure or high capital costs.

With diesel fuel costs increasing by approximately 78%, propane pricing has remained relatively stable, without significant increases over the same period. This price stability, combined with reduced maintenance requirements and improved operational efficiency, further reinforces PNCT’s decision to expand its propane-powered fleet as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to diesel.

“While fuel pricing is always a consideration, long-term reliability and ease of operation are what truly drive port equipment adoption,” Jim Bunsey, senior manager, business development for the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) said. “Which has often led to operators just sticking to diesel unless full electrification is deemed a viable option. But sticking with diesel is becoming far more expensive in more ways than one, especially with the added complexity, regen downtime and maintenance headaches that come with tightening emissions standards. Propane offers a practical solution that delivers resilience and cleaner air today.”

Beyond operational savings, the propane-powered PNCT fleet eliminates the complex emissions aftertreatment systems found on modern diesel engines. Because propane runs cleaner, engine oil experiences far less soot buildup and contamination, resulting in lower engine wear and significantly reduced routine maintenance downtime. Each unit logs approximately 2,000 operating hours annually with preventative maintenance required only every 300 hours.
“Our on-site refueling process allows these terminal tractors to top off and get back to work in minutes, keeping container flow seamless during high-volume shifts,” Ferlisi said. “The combination of reliable performance, simplified maintenance, and cleaner operation has made LPG-powered terminal tractors a practical and effective solution.”

Propane has powered material handling equipment for decades through rapid refueling, simple storage, and an abundant domestic supply. In 2025, PNCT achieved a 14% reduction in operational CO2 emissions alongside near-zero NOx emissions compared to legacy diesel models.
“These results reinforce our commitment to improving both workplace conditions and environmental performance while maintaining reliable operational productivity,” Ferlisi said. “The quieter operation reduces noise fatigue, makes normal conversation much easier and creates a more comfortable environment throughout the workday. Combined with reduced exhaust emissions and soot, the LPG fleet has helped create a cleaner, quieter, and more operator-friendly workplace at PNCT.”

PNCT is a blueprint for terminal operators across the country.

“PNCT is proving that operators don’t have to wait years for utility grid expansions to reduce emissions, and they don’t need to stick to an increasingly costly “status quo” of diesel dependency to protect their bottom line,” Bunsey said. “The math for propane works right now.”
For terminal operators navigating regulatory uncertainty, maintenance overhead, and port decarbonization goals, propane offers a proven, highly reliable, and clean fuel solution operating today at the largest port complex on the East Coast.

###

About PERC: The Propane Education & Research Council is a nonprofit that provides leading propane safety and training programs and invests in research and development of new propane-powered technologies. PERC is operated and funded by the propane industry. For more information, visit Propane.com.