The Environmental Protection Agency is seeking public feedback on the readiness of zero-emission technologies in both trucking and port operations, as part of their attempt to invest in a potential funding program set forth by the Inflation Reduction Act. As our nation strives for sustainability goals, this dialogue could lead us one step closer toward protecting our environment while ensuring economic stability.
Last week, the EPA heard from a chorus of trucking and manufacturing industry representatives about its ambitious Phase 3 greenhouse-gas regulations for heavy-duty trucks. Despite supporting the goal of emissions reduction in principle, they raised concerns that current infrastructure would not be able to meet this proposed regulation due to inadequate zero-emission capabilities.
The agency stated it “already has considerable information about the availability of certain types of [zero-emission] technologies,” but is inviting public comment so it will have “the most comprehensive and current information available.”
The EPA is asking for input on the current market demand and performance of zero-emission vehicles, port equipment, electric charging infrastructure and other sustainable fuel sources. Comments will be taken into account regarding pricing points over a 1-to-3-year period as well as longer term investments in ports up to 5 years out with an emphasis on components manufactured domestically within the U.S.
The government has recently mandated that American infrastructure be fortified with locally-sourced materials, such as iron and steel. With the passing of the Build America Buy America Act (BABA), goods used in federally aided projects must now come from U.S.-based sources.
“While BABA provides the opportunity for EPA to issue certain waivers to these requirements, approval depends on many factors, including the price and availability of domestically sourced materials and products,” said the agency.
Through public feedback, the EPA aims to increase its understanding of the current zero-emission truck landscape and how ports may need to adjust their approach in order to facilitate these greener options. To do so, they are collecting comments on zero-emission class 6 and 7 trucks, as well as any related infrastructure needs for charging or fueling them up.
“This information will enable EPA to effectively design programs to expeditiously fund currently available zero-emission technologies, as well as consider allowances, such as longer project timeframes, for specific technologies,” the agency added.
Comments can be filed through June 5 at http://www.regulations.gov by searching docket No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2023-0216.
Source: CCJDigital
