The Port of Oakland experienced a notable surge in container volumes in September 2024 as shippers front-loaded goods to mitigate potential supply chain disruptions due to anticipated strikes on the US east and gulf coasts. The port reported a 10.4% increase in container handling compared to September 2023, with loaded exports also rising by 2.9% year-on-year. Importers' efforts to ensure sufficient inventories ahead of the holiday season contributed to the heightened activity. Additionally, the port anticipates a robust fourth quarter with a focus on agricultural exports, particularly from California's Central Valley farming region. In a significant development, the Port of Oakland secured a US$ 2.5m grant from the US Department of Energy to advance fuel cell technology. The funding, part of the Biden/Harris Administration's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will support a demonstration project aiming to commercialize zero-emissions container handling equipment over the next four years. The initiative plans to showcase fuel cell electric top loaders and a hydrogen refueling system in regular container handling service at the port, with key partners including the Centre for Transportation and the Environment, Hyster-Yale Group, Nuvera, and TraPac. Community outreach will be led by the West Oakland Environmental Indicators Project, with funding support from Alameda CTC.