Jerrod KingeryThe Port of Philadelphia (PhilaPort) has been selected to receive nearly $80 million to deploy zero-emission port equipment and infrastructure by the Environmental Protection Agency.
The funding comes from the EPA’s Clean Ports Program, and will also allow the port to conduct climate and air quality planning.
“We are extremely pleased to be selected by the EPA as a partner in this historic investment in port infrastructure and zero-emission port equipment,” says Jeff Theobald, Executive Director & CEO of PhilaPort. “This funding will not only help us modernize our equipment but also reinforce our dedication to creating a greener, more sustainable port. We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and contributing to the health and well-being of our community.”
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The funding will go toward the following initiatives:
- Zero Emission Technology – $77,650,965 for electric cargo handling equipment and railcar mover, charging infrastructure and electrical infrastructure upgrades.
- Climate and Air Quality Planning – $2,000,000 to identify availability of terminal and near-terminal space, outline a strategy to power and deploy zero-emission equipment; community and stakeholder engagement to ensure public health; assess baseline emissions generated by terminal operations.
The new zero-emission equipment includes electric ship-to-shore cranes, yard tractors, forklifts and the necessary charging infrastructure to support the new technology.
The grant also provides for a new electric rail switcher to replace the existing diesel model.
Earlier this year, the Port of Philadelphia received $217 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation to increase shipping capacity and efficiency at the port, one of the fastest growing in the country.
Photo courtesy Philaport
