The Port of Los Angeles (POLA) has received a historic US$412 million grant from the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Ports Program to advance its zero-emission (ZE) transition.
With an additional US$236 million from private sector partners, the total US$644 million investment will fund the purchase of nearly 425 pieces of battery-electric cargo-handling equipment, 250 ZE drayage trucks, 300 charging stations, and other infrastructure upgrades.
“The San Pedro Bay ports move the goods that power our economy. This historic investment of over US$400 million in the Port of Los Angeles is a monumental step forward in accelerating the zero-emission infrastructure transition,” stated Alex Padilla, California U.S. Senator.
Additionally, US$50 million will support a community-led ZE grant program focusing on the frontline, disadvantaged neighbourhoods, workforce development, and community engagement.
“We at the EPA are proud to be supporting the Port of Los Angeles’ zero-emission transition with such significant federal funding – this US$411.7 million represents the single largest Clean Ports investment of the 55 being announced today,” commented Martha Guzman, EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator.
This major initiative aims to cut NOx emissions by 55 tons, PM2.5 by 1.5 tons, and greenhouse gases by 41,500 tons annually, reducing diesel fuel usage by 3.5 million gallons.
The funding will advance the Californian Port’s goal of achieving 100% ZE operations by 2030, with support from a coalition of public agencies, business groups, and environmental organizations.
