EPA Invests $3 Billion to Reduce Emissions at U.S. Ports
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant investment of nearly $3 billion aimed at electrifying U.S. ports through 55 projects spread across 27 states. This initiative, known as the "Clean Ports" program, is expected to substantially reduce carbon emissions, with estimates suggesting a potential elimination of over 3 million metric tons of carbon pollution over the next decade.
The funding will facilitate the acquisition of 1,500 units of cargo handling equipment, 1,000 drayage trucks, 10 locomotives, and 20 vessels. Additionally, it will support the development of essential infrastructure for battery-electric and hydrogen vehicle charging and fueling, as well as solar power generation capabilities.
EPA Administrator Michael Regan emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Delivering cleaner technologies and resources to U.S. ports will slash harmful air and climate pollution while protecting people who work in and live nearby ports communities."
Key allocations from the funding include:
Port of Oakland: $322 million to implement electric and hydrogen-powered cargo handling equipment, drayage trucks, and charging infrastructure, along with the scrapping of part of the existing diesel fleet.
Port of Tacoma: $3 million dedicated to assessing the port's emissions and transitioning cargo handling equipment and light-duty vehicles to zero-emission alternatives.
Ports of Savannah and Brunswick: $48 million to establish vessel shore power systems, enabling ships to connect to the electric grid and shut down their auxiliary diesel engines while docked.
Port of Detroit: $22 million for the procurement of zero-emission cargo handling equipment, vessels, railcar movers, charging equipment, and solar arrays.