The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant investment in the Port of Portland, allocating $2,772,684 through its Clean Ports Program. This funding is aimed at supporting various initiatives including an emissions inventory and alternative energy analysis, creating an emissions reduction strategy, updating the port's resilience plan with zero-emissions technology, and conducting workforce planning.
This grant is part of the Inflation Reduction Act, described as the largest investment in combating climate change and promoting clean energy in history. The initiative aims to reduce diesel air pollution from U.S. ports and nearby communities while fostering good-paying union jobs that contribute to thriving American ports.
Casey Sixkiller, Regional Administrator for EPA, emphasized the importance of this funding: “Ports in the Pacific Northwest have for years provided access to global markets and been economic engines supporting thousands of jobs,” he said. “This funding... will supercharge efforts to transition port operations to cleaner, zero-emissions solutions that benefit air quality surrounding port communities.”
Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) also expressed support for the initiative: “This federal funding will provide crucial support to the Port of Portland’s plans to cut down on pollution and transition to zero-emission operations.” Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) highlighted the role of the Port of Portland in both travel plans and small business logistics: “Ensuring the Port of Portland has the long-term tools it needs... is vital for our economy and quality of life.”
Curtis Robinhold, Executive Director at Port of Portland, noted that "this funding is a game-changer for planning a greener future at our marine terminals."
The funds are expected to improve air quality by installing clean technologies at ports nationwide. These efforts are projected to eliminate over 3 million metric tons of carbon pollution.
Earlier this year, EPA announced two separate funding opportunities under its Clean Ports Program: one focused on deploying zero-emission technology directly at ports and another on climate and air quality planning activities. Following a competitive application process with over $8 billion requested by applicants nationwide, 55 applications were selected for this historic investment.
These projects align with national goals such as achieving a zero-emission freight sector as outlined in several strategic government documents. The agency plans to finalize project plans with selectees before awarding funds officially. Implementation will span three to four years depending on each project's scope.
For more information about selected applications under this program visit EPA's Clean Ports Program Selections webpage.
