The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that the Virginia Port Authority will receive $380 million as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda. This funding is aimed at deploying zero-emission port equipment and infrastructure through EPA’s Clean Ports Program.
This initiative, funded by President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, aims to reduce diesel air pollution from ports and nearby communities while promoting jobs that support the growth of American ports. EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan stated, "Our nation’s ports are critical to creating opportunity here in America, offering good-paying jobs, moving goods, and powering our economy."
The investment includes funds for electric cargo handling equipment and charging infrastructure. It is part of a larger $3 billion effort to cut harmful emissions and protect communities near ports. Adam Ortiz, EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator, emphasized the environmental impact of this upgrade on U.S. Ports.
The Port of Virginia is set to benefit significantly from this funding. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine along with Representative Bobby Scott expressed their support for these federal investments that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support clean energy initiatives.
U.S. ports play a crucial role in the economy but also contribute to significant levels of diesel pollution affecting nearby areas' health and contributing to climate change. The new funding will enable the installation of clean technologies across ports nationwide, reducing carbon emissions equivalent to those produced by 391,220 homes annually.
In February 2024, the EPA had opened two funding opportunities for U.S. ports focusing on zero-emission technology deployment and climate planning activities which closed in May 2024 with over $8 billion in requests received.
The selection process evaluated applications based on workforce development efforts aligning with national goals for a zero-emission freight sector outlined in various government strategies.
Funds will cover human-operated equipment used at ports including cargo handling units, drayage trucks, locomotives, vessels as well as supporting infrastructure like battery-electric systems.
Initial estimates suggest significant reductions in CO2 emissions alongside other pollutants within ten years due to this program which also aims to boost job creation in clean energy sectors enhancing U.S competitiveness globally.
EPA's Clean Ports Program supports President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative targeting disadvantaged communities by providing cleaner air quality benefits while ensuring community engagement is integral during project implementation phases anticipated over three-four years depending on project scope.
For more details about selected applications under this program visit the Clean Ports Program Selections webpage.
