Port of Los Angeles receives $412 million towards zero-emission transition

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Clean Ports Program has given the Port of Los Angeles an unprecedented $412 million grant to help the zero-emission (ZE) transition.

The port and its corporate sector partners will match the EPA award with another $236 million, bringing the total new investment in ZE initiatives at the Port of Los Angeles to $644 million.

Los Angeles Mayor, Karen Bass, said: “With this funding, the nation’s busiest port will be able to continue to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality.

“Together, in partnership with the federal government, industry, labor, and environmental justice groups, we are building a greener and healthier Los Angeles. L.A. will continue to lead on innovative infrastructure and sustainability.”

The additional funds will be used to purchase almost 425 pieces of battery-electric, human-operated ZE cargo-handling equipment, establish 300 new ZE charging stations and supporting infrastructure, and deploy 250 ZE drayage vehicles.

The award will also cover $50 million for a community-led ZE grant program, workforce development, and other engagement efforts.

California U.S. Senator, Alex Padilla, stated: “The San Pedro Bay ports move the goods that power our economy. This historic investment of over $400 million in the Port of Los Angeles is a monumental step forward in accelerating the zero-emission infrastructure transition.”

“Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, we’re decarbonising our supply chain to produce cleaner air and protect public health in Southern California communities while building toward our essential zero-emission goals.”

In October, the U.S. EPA awarded the Port of Oakland $322 million to accelerate the Oakland Seaport’s transition to nearly 100 per cent zero-emission cargo handling operations.