- $26.5 million awarded to 11 Washington ports to support electrification.
- Projects aim to reduce over 140,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions in 10 years.
- Funding focuses on shore power construction and electric vehicle infrastructure.
Washington state recently awarded $26.5 million to 11 ports for electrification projects. These projects, which are the first of their kind, are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 140,000 metric tons over the next decade, reports WSDOT.
Washington’s New Port Electrification Grant
The Port Electrification Grant Program was created in 2023 by the Washington Legislature as part of the state’s Climate Commitment Act. The program aims to reduce carbon emissions in the transportation sector, which is the largest contributor to pollution in the state. All 75 public ports were eligible to apply, and grants were awarded through a competitive process.
The grant money will primarily support two types of projects:
- Grants will fund shore power systems so ships can use clean electricity while docked.
- Funds will also support installing EV chargers and purchasing electric drayage trucks for cargo transport.
“We are pleased to support cleaner air quality for those who live and work near the ports,” said Jason Biggs, director of WSDOT’s Rail, Freight and Ports Division. “This program helps ports switch from using fossil fuels, creates a better work environment for port staff and ensures nearby neighborhoods are healthier places to live.”
Breakdown of Grant Awards
Following a competitive review process, grant awards were presented to:
- Northwest Seaport Alliance ($2.6 million for shore power planning).
- Port of Anacortes ($1.03 million for shore power and zero emission equipment).
- Port of Bellingham ($2.8 million for shore power).
- Port of Benton ($ 2.7 million for shore power).
- Port of Edmonds ($1.5 million for shore power).
- Port of Everett ($4.3 million for shore power, electric trucks and cleaner generators).
- Port of Friday Harbor ($7 million for shore power and electric trucks).
- Port of Kalama ($1.4 million for an electric boat dock).
- Port of Port Angeles ($525,408 for shore power and electric cargo equipment).
- Port of Ridgefield ($1.2 million for electric vehicle chargers).
- Port of Seattle ($1 million for shore power).
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Source:WSDOT