Great Lakes shipping could become cleaner with $9 million available to replace or repower engines on freight switchers, ferry boats, and tug boats, as well as shore-side powering for vessels.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy is starting the process of funding grants to pay for the switchover to zero-emission technology. The grants will range from $100,000 to $5 million and will fund between 25% and 70% of each project.
The grants are funded with the money that Michigan received in the Volkswagen settlement. EGLE’s Fuel Transformation Program has the goal of reducing emissions and increasing the use of zero-emission and alternative fuel engines.
Elizabeth Browne, director of the Materials Management Division at EGLE said, “This is a great opportunity to reduce emissions from rail and marine sources to help improve air quality in neighboring communities and protect the environment. While cars get the most attention, other transportation sectors are also integral to Michigan’s transition to zero-emission or cleaner fuels as called out in the draft MI Healthy Climate Plan.”
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
