The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced nearly $400 million in funding through the Clean Ports Program for green upgrades at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, as well as SeaStreak LLC, a commuter ferry service operating between New Jersey and New York City.
This investment aims to fund zero-emission equipment and infrastructure along with climate and air quality planning. The initiative is expected to reduce air pollution and promote environmental justice in port communities such as Newark and Elizabeth.
New Jersey officials have expressed support for this development, highlighting the state's position as the fourth largest container port in the United States and the largest on the East Coast, handling over 100 million tons of cargo annually.
Shawn M. LaTourette, state Environmental Protection Commissioner, stated: “The electrification of port equipment and infrastructure is a vital component in the state’s clean energy goals and will lead to meaningful reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and other air pollutants to improve air quality in overburdened communities in Newark and Elizabeth.”
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) is set to receive approximately $344 million to collaborate with five partners on their project titled "Catalyzing Change: Zero-Emissions NY-NJ Port Projects for a Greener Future." This plan involves deploying electric cargo handling equipment, drayage trucks with charging infrastructure, a ZE Equipment for Ports Voucher Incentive Program, and a Green Drayage Accelerator program.
PANYNJ has committed to reducing polluting vehicles by scrapping part of its existing fleet. The project also includes installing vessel shore power infrastructure. PANYNJ plans to implement community engagement strategies while training workers on new equipment operation.
SeaStreak LLC will receive an estimated $54 million to deploy high-speed zero-emission ferries between New Jersey and New York City. This project includes establishing shore power electrical equipment infrastructure with integrated battery storage systems for efficient vessel charging.
Additionally, SeaStreak's project proposes forming a community stakeholder group while collaborating with educational institutions for workforce development initiatives.
Funding for these grants comes from the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 which allocates nearly $400 billion towards Energy Security and Climate Change programs over ten years. U.S. Representative Frank Pallone Jr., House Energy & Commerce Ranking Member said: “Bringing these federal dollars back to New Jersey means cleaner air, less traffic on our busiest routes, and a long-term boost for communities like Highlands.”
James D. Barker from Seastreak remarked: “Seastreak is committed to being one of the most environmentally friendly passenger ferry operators in the country... With this grant we are excited about contributing towards maritime technology advancements."
In February 2024 EPA announced two separate funding opportunities targeting U.S ports; both competitions closed by May 2024 receiving requests totaling over $8 billion nationwide aiming at advancing clean technologies across American ports.
Ultimately EPA selected 55 applications amounting up-to $3 billion under Clean Ports Program funding allocation.
