The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a significant investment of nearly $530,000 in Massachusetts as part of the EPA's Clean Ports Program. This funding is aimed at supporting climate and air quality planning at the New Bedford Marine Commerce Terminal. The grant, amounting to approximately $528,740, will enable the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center to conduct a comprehensive emissions inventory and develop strategies for emissions reduction, including exploring zero-emission technologies.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the importance of ports in the economy, stating that "our nation's ports are critical to creating opportunity here in America, offering good-paying jobs, moving goods, and powering our economy." He highlighted that this investment aligns with President Biden's vision for economic growth while addressing climate pollution.
EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash remarked on the significance of ports in New England's economic landscape: "Ports are vital to our economy and are often in communities that are most overburdened by pollution." He noted that these investments aim to cut diesel pollution and improve community health.
U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren commented on the grant's impact on New Bedford: "Families and workers in New Bedford deserve a thriving economy and clean environment." U.S. Senator Ed Markey also praised the initiative, stating that it would make New Bedford a model for deploying zero-emission technology.
U.S. Representative Bill Keating acknowledged New Bedford's leadership in sustainable development: "New Bedford is leading the nation on offshore wind development and sustainable fisheries."
Massachusetts Clean Energy Center CEO Emily Reichert expressed gratitude for the support from the Biden-Harris Administration: "With the EPA's support through the Clean Ports Program, we will develop a robust emissions reduction strategy."
The funds are part of President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, which aims to combat climate change by reducing diesel air pollution from U.S. ports while promoting union jobs. This initiative is expected to eliminate more than 3 million metric tons of carbon pollution nationwide.
The EPA announced two separate funding opportunities earlier this year as part of its commitment to advancing clean technologies at U.S. ports. A total of 55 applications were selected after a rigorous review process based on workforce development efforts and alignment with national goals for zero-emission freight sectors.
These projects will support various equipment used at ports, including battery-electric and hydrogen-powered machinery. Initial estimates suggest significant reductions in CO2 emissions over ten years due to these new technologies.
The program not only focuses on environmental benefits but also aims to protect and grow port jobs while enhancing U.S. competitiveness in clean energy sectors. It aligns with President Biden's Justice40 Initiative to deliver benefits to disadvantaged communities affected by pollution.
The agency plans to finalize project plans with selectees before moving into implementation over the next few years.
For more information about selected applications under the Clean Ports Program, visit their webpage.
