The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced nearly $28 million in funding for clean port initiatives in Michigan, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration's Investing in America agenda. The Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy are set to receive a total of $27,905,782 through EPA’s Clean Ports Program.
The Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority will receive approximately $21.9 million for zero-emission technology deployment, including electric cargo handling equipment and charging infrastructure. Additionally, it will get $3 million for climate and air quality planning to develop an emissions reduction roadmap.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy is also allocated $3 million to create a competitive grant program aimed at enhancing sustainability efforts at Michigan water ports. This includes activities like resiliency planning and stakeholder engagement.
Funding comes from President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, which aims to combat climate change by reducing diesel pollution in U.S. ports while creating good-paying jobs. "Our nation’s ports are critical to creating opportunity here in America," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan.
Rep. Debbie Dingell emphasized the importance of this funding for making ports cleaner and more energy-efficient. Rep. Rashida Tlaib highlighted its role in reducing emissions in Detroit's frontline communities and building green jobs.
Rep. Shri Thanedar noted that the investment would modernize port equipment at the Port of Detroit, making it competitive globally while addressing climate change issues.
Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority Executive Director Mark Schrupp expressed gratitude for the funding that will replace diesel-powered equipment with zero-emission alternatives. Chairman Jonathan C. Kinloch acknowledged support from the EPA and the administration for improving air quality and creating clean energy jobs.
Phil Roos from the Michigan Department of Environment praised the initiative for protecting resources while growing Michigan's maritime economy.
This funding is part of a broader effort by EPA’s Clean Ports Program to advance environmental justice by ensuring disadvantaged communities benefit from cleaner air and job opportunities created by zero-emission technologies at ports across the country.
