The first phase of the Chinese smart system developed by Tianjin Port is expected to be completed in the coming months for delivery to Saudi Arabia's NEOM Port, marking the first export of a Chinese smart-port solution.

A view of the smart zero-carbon terminal at Tianjin Port. (File photo: Xinhua)

The initial delivery includes two autonomous transport vehicles, an automated charging system and a transportation dispatch platform.

Tianjin Port will also provide testing, commissioning and technical support, with additional equipment expected to be supplied as construction of the Saudi port progresses.

"The smart zero-carbon terminal and new-generation intelligent horizontal transportation system at Tianjin Port offer a replicable Chinese solution for the transformation and upgrading of traditional ports worldwide. At its core, this solution empowers operations with innovative productivity, enabling full-process automation and energy self-sufficiency," said Yang Jiemin, vice-president of Tianjin Port Group.

The port has received China's Artificial Intelligence Management System Certification.

The terminal has developed an intelligent transportation system that leverages a 5G private communications network, Beidou positioning technology and artificial intelligence.

This system facilitates autonomous operations throughout the terminal, supporting 92 driverless transport vehicles and enabling real-time coordination of key equipment.

"Beidou-based positioning provides centimeter-level accuracy, while AI algorithms optimize cargo handling and scheduling," said Kong Xichao, an equipment operations supervisor in the terminal's information technology department.

Kong said these technologies have enhanced operating efficiency by approximately 20 percent compared to conventional terminals.

Alongside automation, renewable energy underpins the terminal's zero-carbon operations.

Across the port, renewable energy projects generate about 350 million kilowatt-hours of electricity each year, meeting around 70 percent of operational power demand.

Tianjin Port has also deployed hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks as part of its decarbonization efforts.

Robert Fitzthum, an Austrian representative in a delegation of experts and officials from eight countries, said after visiting Tianjin earlier this month that China has made notable progress in balancing ecological protection with economic development. He praised Tianjin Port's zero-emissions operations and use of smart green technologies.

"For a long time, people have pursued economic development while longing for clean rivers and a healthy environment. China has achieved notable progress in balancing ecological protection with economic growth, providing an example of sustainable development," he said.

State Grid Tianjin Electric Power Co said Tianjin's installed capacity for new energy power generation surpassed 14.8 million kilowatts by the end of last year, accounting for almost half of the city's total installed power generation capacity.

"New energy surpassed coal power to become the city's largest power source. Tianjin is transitioning from being primarily coal-powered to becoming a leader in green electricity," said Shan Dapeng, a manager at State Grid Tianjin Electric Power Co.