South Carolina Ports (SC Ports) has received a $1.3 million grant to support project partners as they deploy all-electric, energy-efficient trucks in place of diesel-run vehicles.
In a statement, SC Ports said the U.S Environmental Protection Agency awarded the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) grant.
The company will facilitate the grant to project partners A&R Logistics and Benore Logistic Systems, with the shared goal of moving cargo more sustainably to significantly cutting emissions over time.
Benore Logistic Systems and A&R Logistics will use the funds to replace eight diesel freight haulers with new zero emission, battery electric-powered tractor trucks.
SC Ports Chief Operating Officer Barbara Melvin said, “SC Ports is consistently looking for ways to make our operations more sustainable and efficient.
“The support from the EPA through the $1.3 million DERA grant, and the bold initiative taken by A&R Logistics and Benore to deploy the electric trucks, serve as a great model for companies looking to create a more sustainable supply chain.”
The initiative will provide health benefits to the surrounding communities by reducing air emissions, according to SC Ports.
Replacing older diesel vehicles with electric vehicles significantly reduces the amount of hydrocarbon, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions being released into the environment over a vehicle’s lifetime.
SC Ports Permitting Manager Mark Messersmith said, “The ability to move cargo with all-electric trucks significantly reduces emissions in the surrounding communities, which positively impacts residents and businesses.
“SC Ports is focused on improving air quality in the communities in which it operates through a variety of emissions-reducing programs, such as this innovative electric vehicle initiative.
“SC Ports anticipates that the efforts of Benore and A&R will showcase the benefits of these electric vehicle trucks and provide a catalyst for other trucking companies.”
