EPA Awards $48.7M Grant to Georgia Ports

TL/DR –

The Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) has received a $48.7 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 15,000 tons a year. The funds, given as part of the EPA’s Clean Ports Program, will be used to acquire new cargo handling equipment, install “vessel shore power systems” at three berths, and to fund 16 electric terminal jockey trucks and charging infrastructure. Construction is set to begin in 2026 and will take approximately three years.

Georgia Ports Reduces Emissions with EPA Grant of $48.7 Million

As the fog blanketed the Savannah River, hundreds of trucks shuttled containers at the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA), each emitting diesel exhaust. Meanwhile, GPA’s President and CEO, Griff Lynch, discussed how the ports plan to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by almost 15,000 tons annually, with support from a $48.7 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The grant, also backed by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022, stems from the EPA’s Clean Ports Program. The program encourages the procurement of zero-emission port machinery and infrastructure.

EPA & GPA Join Hands to Create Healthier Port Environments

“The aim is to minimize emissions as they impact port workers and surrounding communities,” said the EPA’s Acting Regional Administrator, Jeaneanne Gettle. “Hence, we’re exploring ways to reduce these emissions to improve conditions for everyone associated with the port.”

Grant Implementation: A Boost for Eco-friendly Port Operations

The grant will finance new cargo handling machinery and support the implementation of \”vessel shore power systems\” at three ports in Savannah and one in Brunswick. These systems enable ships to connect to shore power, thereby switching off their engines while docked. Additionally, the grant will fund 16 electric terminal jockey trucks and charging infrastructure.

Community Impact and Project Timeline

According to Savannah Mayor Van Johnson, finding a balance between commerce and health is crucial. The EPA’s Clean Port Grant emphasizes GPA’s dedication to environmental stewardship and reflects a mutual vision. “This $48 million investment will help us tackle significant community issues,” said Johnson. Construction will commence in 2026 and is expected to be completed over a three-year period.

—
Read More US Economic News