The Georgia Ports Authority is set to receive more than $48 million in federal grant money to install new electric charging infrastructure for ships at the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick, Sens. Jake Ossoff and Raphael Warnock announced Tuesday.
The funding allocated to the Georgia’s Ports Authority will invest in vessel shore power systems that allow ships to ‘plug-in’ to electric grid power and shut off diesel engines while anchored at port.
The project also includes replacement of diesel terminal tractors with new electric terminal tractors. GPA plans to provide classroom and on-the-job training for workers related to shore power, zero-emission vehicles and charging stations.
Officials say the grant will result in less smog from diesel emissions for surrounding port communities, strengthening air quality and overall quality of life.
“Today, we are delivering new resources through the EPA’s Clean Ports program to upgrade the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick with vessel shore power systems and install new electric charging infrastructure,” Ossoff said. “This is a win-win for our economy and for local communities.”
Warnock, who was born in Savannah, said the grant is part of a bipartisan effort to expand the coastal city’s port and account for future growth.
“As a son of coastal Georgia, I know the importance of Georgia’s ports and its workers to our state and national economies,” Warnock said. “As we continue moving toward a clean energy economy, it is critical Georgia and its workers remain on the frontlines of these federal investments and reap the benefits of our hard work in Washington.”
Earlier this year, Warnock and Ossoff announced over $15 million in clean energy and infrastructure investments for the Port of Savannah. Warnock also previously secured $11.3 million for the Brunswick Harbor, as well as $44.7 million for the Savannah Harbor to support operations and maintenance.
