The Port of Long Beach (POLB) has announced the launch of two new incentive programmes totaling US$57.4 million to accelerate emissions reductions by supporting the purchase of zero-emissions cargo-handling equipment and cleaner harbor craft.
The funding is part of the System-Wide Investment in Freight Transport (SWIFT), an initiative funded by the California State Transportation Agency’s Port and Freight Infrastructure Program. SWIFT is a transformative effort designed to support the Californian port modernization, enhance goods movement efficiency and reduce environmental impacts on neighboring communities.
“This program is all about making strides in operational efficiency and sustainability, rapidly and responsibly,” pointed out POLB CEO Mario Cordero. “It is a reflection of not only our dedication to innovation but also our responsibility towards the community and the environment.”
This round of funding is evenly split between the Zero-Emission Terminal Transformation and Harbor Craft Business Continuity and Emission Reduction programs, as follows:
- Zero-Emission Terminal Transformation Program: US$28.7 million in incentives for purchasing zero-emission cargo handling equipment and battery-electric CHE charging equipment. All cargo handling equipment being tested must be manually operated.
- Commercial Harbor Craft Incentive Program: US$28.7 million to support upgrades that meet advanced environmental standards for harbor craft.
