With Zero Emissions Goal, EPA Awards $3B for Port Projects
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is driving efforts to cut carbon emissions at U.S. ports with $3 billion in grants awarded to 55 projects focused on zero-emission targets.
Announced on October 29, the grants support projects across 27 states and territories, with more than 20 of these initiatives, including several major ones, dedicated to port electrification programs.
The City of Los Angeles Harbor Department, which operates the Port of Los Angeles, will be receiving a $411.7 million grant to transition from diesel to battery-electric cargo-handling equipment, drayage trucks, and shore power systems, according to an EPA fact sheet. The funds will also support new charging stations, solar power infrastructure, and battery storage.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey will use its $344.1 million grant to deploy electric cargo equipment and trucks, along with necessary charging infrastructure. Similarly, the Virginia Port Authority plans to use its $380 million grant to replace internal combustion engine equipment with battery-electric units at three terminals.
Funded by the Clean Ports program established under the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan described the initiative as a "game changer" for ports, which he called “the backbone of our economy.” Regan noted that many surrounding communities face severe air quality challenges from diesel emissions.
According to the EPA, these grants will reduce over three million tons of CO2 emissions and decrease other pollutants. Demand for funding was high, with the EPA receiving requests totaling over $8 billion, more than triple the available funds.
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