TAMPA, FL – Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) announced Port Tampa Bay will receive $1.8 million in grant funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Ports Program to develop a climate pollution reduction strategy for port infrastructure.

Port Tampa Bay will use the funds to develop a baseline air pollution inventory and engage with port and community stakeholders on long-term planning for cleaner operations. The grant will allow Port Tampa Bay to study the feasibility of renewable energy technology, including electric, battery-electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and green fuel technologies. The study will include goals/objectives, tracking, reporting, technology deployment, infrastructure upgrades, renewable energy procurement, stakeholder engagement, and funding strategies.

“Climate pollution is responsible for rising temperatures and extreme weather events like rapidly intensifying and powerful hurricanes, so it is critical that we develop solutions that reduce pollution and the costly impacts of the heating climate,” said Rep. Castor. “I am enthused to support Port Tampa Bay’s efforts Clean Ports Climate and Air Quality Planning - made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act. The planning grant will support the installation of modern electric infrastructure and the replacement of outdated equipment to enhance efficiency and aid the transition to a zero-emission future. Through this initiative, the Port will further its environmental stewardship by improving and safeguarding air quality throughout Tampa Bay.”

Castor has championed infrastructure and resiliency investments in Tampa Bay neighborhoods and economic engines under the landmark Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and Inflation Reduction Act, which was passed by the Democratic-led Congress and signed by President Biden. This grant follows a $22 million grant for Port Tampa Bay to improve supply chains and a $40 million grant for Tampa International Airport to construct a new terminal announced in October.  The total project cost is $2 million, with the Environmental Protection Agency providing $1.8 million and Port Tampa Bay securing $200,000 in local funding.