The Biden-Harris Administration has announced nearly $3 billion in investments aimed at reducing emissions and promoting clean energy at U.S. ports. The funds, part of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean Ports Program, will support 55 projects across 27 states and territories. These initiatives are funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, described as the largest investment in combating climate change and promoting clean energy.
"Ports are vital to the U.S. economy," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan, highlighting their role in moving goods and creating jobs while also acknowledging their contribution to diesel air pollution. The new funding aims to install zero-emission technologies that will reduce over 3 million metric tons of carbon pollution.
John Podesta, Senior Advisor to the President for International Climate Policy, emphasized the administration's commitment to infrastructure improvement and job creation through environmentally focused projects. "The EPA Clean Ports program is one of the best examples of their vision come to life," he stated.
Ali Zaidi, White House National Climate Advisor, pointed out that these grants exemplify how environmental policy can also drive economic growth by advancing clean energy solutions across various sectors.
Maryland Senator Ben Cardin noted that these investments would improve air quality and create jobs at key locations like the Port of Baltimore. Senator Van Hollen echoed this sentiment, stating that federal funding would support Baltimore's transition to electric infrastructure.
Congressman Kweisi Mfume emphasized the significance of these projects for Baltimore's emissions reduction strategy and workforce development. He called it a continuation of efforts initiated by the Inflation Reduction Act.
The EPA selected applications based on criteria including workforce development and alignment with national goals for a zero-emission freight sector. Projects include deploying zero-emission equipment such as cargo handling machines, trucks, locomotives, vessels, and supporting infrastructure like charging stations.
Selected projects cover a range of activities from deploying electric cargo handling equipment at New York and New Jersey ports to installing vessel shore power systems in Georgia ports. In Texas, Houston's PORT SHIFT project will accelerate zero-emissions technology adoption.
The initiative is part of President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative aiming to deliver benefits to disadvantaged communities affected by pollution. Community engagement was a key factor in selecting projects for funding under this program.
Awards will be finalized once all requirements are met with implementation expected over three to four years depending on project scope.
