Port of LA-Long Beach Embraces Clean Rail Innovations

The Pacific Harbor Line (PHL) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) have secured funding for five zero-emission locomotives. The project aims to improve air quality and reduce emissions in the Los Angeles-Long Beach area. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Advancing Green Rail at the Port of LA-Long Beach

After a yearlong trial of the EMD Joule battery-electric locomotive, Progress Rail’s innovation received positive feedback. This step signifies PHL’s commitment to improving air quality in the Los Angeles-Long Beach area. “We are thrilled by this grant, which furthers our mission to reduce port emissions,” said Otis L. Cliatt II, president of PHL.

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PHL’s contributions amount to $6.37 million toward the $34.2 million project cost, underscoring its dedication to sustainability. This partnership also involves installing two charging stations alongside eight total locomotives, with five units reserved for the Los Angeles-Long Beach complex. The other three locomotives will operate in Sacramento, Imperial, and San Bernardino, California.

Environmental Benefits of the Port of LA-Long Beach Project

This initiative will significantly cut emissions in the busy port area. The zero-emission (ZE) locomotives will lower nitrogen oxide emissions by 17 tons annually and reduce particulate matter (PM2.5) by 500 pounds yearly. Additionally, the project aims to eliminate 459 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually, supporting California’s ambitious air quality targets.

Progress Rail, a U.S.-based manufacturer, will produce these advanced ZE locomotives. Their introduction marks a pivotal transformation for PHL and port operations nationwide. These efforts are expected to alleviate the health burdens faced by disadvantaged communities near the ports. Such communities have long endured elevated pollution levels.

Through this funding, the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, America’s busiest port complex, will reinforce their environmental leadership. This project’s completion will mark a major milestone in achieving cleaner, sustainable rail systems for California’s future.

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