The Bay Area Air Quality Management District recently announced the availability of $34 million in Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust funding for zero-emission freight and marine initiatives in California.
As explained, the funding is expected to upgrade forklifts, port cargo handling equipment, airport ground support, marine vessel engines and shore power projects.
Namely, the funding is available statewide for the following types of projects:
- Scrap-and-replace airport ground support equipment, port cargo handling equipment and forklifts with new zero-emission technologies.
- Scrap-and-repower marine engines for ferries, tugboats, and towboats with new zeroemission, all-electric or fuel-cell, technologies.
- Installation of shore power at berths that serve ocean-going vessels.
The funding is being offered statewide through a first-come first-served solicitation. Applications will be evaluated for eligible equipment based on ability to reduce NOx emissions. All funded equipment and vehicles must operate in California.
…as California VW Environmental Mitigation Trust noted.
Concluding, at least 75% of the $34 million is expected to benefit disadvantaged and low-income communities.
