The Ports of Anacortes and Bellingham have received millions of dollars from the federal government to pursue projects related to the Clean Ports Program.
The program has goals over time to reduce diesel pollution in near-port communities, create a foundation for a transition to zero-emission operations, and ensure community engagement and emission reduction planning are port industry standard practices.
The Clean Ports Program is run through the Environmental Protection Agency.
The Port of Anacortes will receive $63.8 million to fund a major switch of port equipment to battery electric power with another $1.3 million going toward additional planning work, according to the announcement. The funds will allow the port to purchase a range of new battery electric equipment including five tow tractors, 16 forklifts, six marine travel cranes, five booms, two material handlers and seven vessels.
“This major federal investment will enable the Port of Anacortes to electrify its operations and bring in much-needed new cargo handling equipment that will help the Port expand,” Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA) said. “Boosting the Port’s efficiency and capacity will create 50 new high-paying jobs, introduce more apprenticeships, and maintain payrolls for over 1,000 locals currently employed by the Port and its tenants.”
Sen. Patty Murray said she would continue to fight for federal dollars to go toward investments for clean energy.
“The Port of Anacortes is an important part of Washington state’s maritime infrastructure and a huge mover for Skagit County’s economy — these federal resources will help ensure the Port can more quickly implement its zero-emissions strategy while creating local jobs,” she said.
The Port of Bellingham received a $1.5 million planning grant that will help it develop an energy transition plan focusing on resiliency and long-term emission reductions, according to the EPA.
The funding is part of the Climate and Air Quality Planning Competition, which funds climate and air quality planning activity to help port stakeholders reduce pollution and transition to zero-emission operations over time, according to the EPA.
The Port of Bellingham also received funding in early September from Washington state through the Department of Transportation to electrify the port. The $2.8 million grant came through the Climate Commitment Act and will be put toward a project to allow ships docked at the shipping terminal to plug into the port’s electrical grid.
The Port of Bellingham has also received millions in federal funds for the shipping terminal modernization project and extending the Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail line to the terminal.
More than $2.9 billion was awarded to 55 applicants across the U.S. Anacortes and Bellingham were two of six ports in Washington to be selected for the funding.
Annie Todd is CDN’s criminal justice/enterprise reporter; reach her at annietodd@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 130.
