“Continually upgrading our ports is essential to attract new businesses and keep and create jobs,” said Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA). “This money improves infrastructure and workforce development. This is how to make the Port of New Orleans even more competitive.”
“This funding for the Port of New Orleans is a significant investment that will drive substantial reductions in truck emissions, benefiting the environment and public health,” said Rep. Troy Carter, Sr. (D-LA).
“It showcases a bold approach to modernizing port facilities, aligning with the goals of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to promote sustainability and innovation in transportation infrastructure. By upgrading electrical infrastructure and incorporating all-electric trucks, the Port of New Orleans sets an example for ports nationwide while also fostering workforce development through strategic partnerships with educational institutions.”
Port NOLA will use the federal funding for sustainable transportation and infrastructure to reduce truck congestion and emissions at Port terminals, Ports America Louisiana, and New Orleans Terminal. The funding will also provide $200,000 in sub-awards for Port NOLA’s partners at Nunez Community College and the Urban League of Louisiana for workforce development and educational opportunities.
“We would like to thank the Biden Administration and our federal delegation for helping the Port of New Orleans honor its commitment to sustainability, environmental justice, equity, and reducing our environmental footprint,” said Brandy Christian, CEO, Port NOLA. “We remain focused on prioritizing the utilization of green technologies and infrastructure, sustainable transportation, and helping underserved communities through workforce development initiatives. This funding helps us continue this transformative journey that is aligned with a broader global movement to slow climate change.”
Seven electric terminal tractors and associated charging infrastructure will be installed at both Port NOLA terminal operators, Ports America Louisiana, and New Orleans Terminal.
“The Port of New Orleans is a vital gateway to the world’s supply chain, and an economic engine for Louisiana and the nation. We realize the importance of reducing emissions, increasing efficiency, and modernizing our infrastructure for the future,” said Kristopher Calkins, CEO, New Orleans Terminal. “We thank Port NOLA, and the federal government for their help in prioritizing our collective sustainability initiatives.”
$145,115 of the federal funding with a $30,000 match from BP Pulse will also be used for data management and analytics software installation and project management. BP Pulse will be providing its Omega Charge Management Software (Omega CMS) to Port NOLA and the terminal operators to monitor and maximize efficiency of electric vehicles and equipment, as well as the charging stations.
