The two ports have requested proposals for new technology to reduce at-berth emissions. File Image / Pixabay
The Port of Long Beach (PoLB) and Port of Los Angeles (L.A.) have requested proposals for new technology to reduce at-berth emissions for non-container vessels, including tankers, vehicle carriers, bulk, and general cargo ships.
"Large ships are the leading source of port-related emissions. Cutting pollution from vessels is a key strategy in the San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP), adopted in 2006," said the ports.
"The CAAP, a landmark effort aimed at reducing health risks, was recently updated. The update calls for up to a 100 percent reduction in at-berth emissions from container and non-container vessels by 2030."
The ports note that they have invested almost $400 million in dockside power hookups and other infrastructure to facilitate shore power, which has already greatly curtailed at-berth air pollution from container ships.
Proposals are due by February 27, 2018
The request for proposals by the ports under their Technology Advancement Program offers $1 million - $500,000 from each port - to fund demonstrations of one or more cost-effective technologies capable of eliminating at-berth emissions from ships that do not fall under the California's shore power mandate.
Proposers must provide at least a 50 percent match to the project cost.
Proposals are due by February 27, 2018.