The purpose of this award is to provide funding under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to the Virginia Port Authority. Specifically, the recipient will retire and scrap internal combustion engine units at the Norfolk International Terminals and Richmond Marine Terminal and replace them with new batteryelectric equipment. The equipment slated for purchase under this project includes zero-emissions (ZE) cargo handling equipment, electric vehicle supply equipment, and associated charging infrastructure. The project also includes developing workforce training on electrical equipment and infrastructure, and conducting public education efforts. The activities include retirement and scrappage of 192 internal combustion engine units at Norfolk International Terminals (NIT) and scrappage of 23 internal combustion engine units at Richmond Marine Terminal (RMT) and forgoing the renewal of a lease for seven units of internal combustion engine equipment at RMT and replacement of all scrapped units with new battery-electric equipment. This project will allow the port to build upon the foundation to transition to a fully zero-emission operation and serve as a catalyst for transformational change across freight operations. The project will also support the development of electrical training in the region to promote local workforce development in the operation and maintenance of electric equipment and will provide a public education opportunity for project partners, port users, and the community. VPA has also committed to strengthening community ties and engagement efforts throughout the project period.
