The Port of Vancouver USA has had a record-breaking year in 2020 booking the highest returns in its 108-year history. Revenues totalled USD 50 million, which is a 15%  increase from the previous year. Wind turbines were a big reason behind that growth. 

The Port of Vancouver – the one below Seattle in Washington, not the one above it in Canada – moved over 7 million tonnes of commodities, with energy infrastructure components leading the effort. Over 2,700 wind turbines crossed the docks of the port, the most of any West Coast port and enough to power 112,000 homes, the port states.

While the pandemic disrupted many businesses the Port of Vancouver’s proficiency in bulk and breakbulk cargoes allowed the port to leverage its best assets, including the ability to handle large-sized shipments, such as wind energy components. According to the port, it is this advantage, along with extensive laydown space for storage, a skilled workforce and excellent transportation connections, that equipped the port to weather the economic disruption.

“Strategic investments, long term customer partnerships and a diverse product mix positioned the port well to continue to serve as an economic engine for our community during some very difficult times,” said Alex Strogen, Chief Commercial Officer with the Port of Vancouver.

Rolling cargo

In addition to wind energy components, the port moved over 5.4 million tonnes of grain, over 300,000 tonnes of copper concentrate and nearly 90,000 automobiles, with a record number of 3,350 autos received on a single vessel in October.

“As we look ahead in 2021, we continue to see the opportunity for the further diversification of products handled by the port. Our role as an economic engine for our community continues to grow regardless of the challenges faced,” Strogen concludes.