The Biden-Harris Administration has announced significant funding for clean port initiatives in Delaware as part of its Investing in America agenda. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) disclosed that the Diamond State Port Corporation and the Delaware River and Bay Authority have been selected to receive over $125 million and $540,000 respectively through the EPA’s Clean Ports Program.
The Diamond State Port Corporation is set to receive approximately $127.5 million to implement zero-emission port equipment at Port Delaware South and North. This initiative involves converting existing diesel cargo handling equipment to electric, acquiring new electric equipment, and dismantling a portion of the current diesel fleet. Additionally, chargers and electrical infrastructure will be purchased to support this transition. The project also encompasses emissions inventory preparation, community engagement efforts, and workforce development.
Meanwhile, the Delaware River and Bay Authority will use its $540,000 grant for emissions inventory analysis, reduction strategy planning, stakeholder outreach, reliance planning evaluation, and workforce planning at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminals.
These grants are funded by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act—the largest investment aimed at combating climate change and promoting clean energy in history. The initiative seeks to advance environmental justice by reducing diesel air pollution from U.S. ports while creating good-paying union jobs.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the importance of ports in providing opportunities within America: “Our nation’s ports are critical to creating opportunity here in America, offering good-paying jobs, moving goods, and powering our economy.” He added that this investment supports President Biden's vision of economic growth through globally competitive solutions while reducing harmful air pollution.
EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz highlighted the environmental impact of U.S. ports: "While our U.S. Ports are critical to the economy of the Mid-Atlantic region, they also have a significant impact on our environment." He noted that upgrading port equipment would have lasting positive effects on East Coast communities.
U.S. Senator Tom Carper (DE), Chair of the Environment and Public Works Committee, remarked on the benefits for vulnerable communities: “Our ports are vital to Delaware's economic well-being...Port electrification is one solution that will clean up the air that nearby communities breathe while also addressing the climate crisis.”
Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (DE-01), member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, expressed pride in securing this investment: “The resiliency of Port Wilmington is crucial...Today’s investment meets that goal with urgency and equity.”
