The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a significant investment in the Port of Philadelphia, with nearly $80 million allocated through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean Ports Program. This funding is aimed at deploying zero-emission port equipment and infrastructure, as well as climate and air quality planning.
The initiative is part of President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, which represents a historic investment in combating climate change and promoting clean energy. The program seeks to reduce diesel air pollution from U.S. ports while supporting good-paying union jobs.
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.” He emphasized that this $3 billion investment supports President Biden’s vision for economic growth through globally competitive solutions.
Adam Ortiz, EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator, noted the environmental impact of ports on the Mid-Atlantic region and described the effort as "once-in-a-generation" for upgrading port equipment with lasting positive effects on East Coast communities.
The funds will be used to enhance electric cargo handling equipment and railcar movers, upgrade charging infrastructure, and improve electrical systems. These efforts aim to eliminate over 3 million metric tons of carbon pollution nationwide.
Congressman Dwight Evans expressed his support for the initiative: “I was proud to vote for the Biden-Harris administration’s Inflation Reduction Act... this more than $79 million in federal funding for our area is just the latest way it’s benefiting Philadelphia.”
Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon highlighted the importance of Philadelphia's port as a job driver and gateway for goods: “I’m so pleased to see funding from the Biden-Harris administration’s Investing in America agenda continue to flow into our region.”
In February 2024, EPA announced two funding opportunities focused on zero-emission technology deployment and climate planning activities at U.S. ports. Following an extensive review process, 55 applications were selected from over $8 billion in requests.
The selected projects include a variety of human-operated equipment upgrades at ports across the country. Initial estimates suggest significant reductions in CO2 emissions over ten years due to these advancements.
Beyond environmental benefits, this program aims to protect existing jobs while creating new ones within the clean energy sector. It also aligns with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative by delivering benefits to disadvantaged communities impacted by pollution.
EPA anticipates making awards after fulfilling all legal requirements. Selected applicants will collaborate with EPA over several months before finalizing project plans and commencing implementation phases expected over three to four years.
Further details about tentatively selected applications can be found on the Clean Ports Program Selections webpage.
