Port of San Diego Makes Significant Strides in Zero Emission Goals and Objectives Outlined in its Maritime Clean Air Strategy
Contact: Gabriella Rodriguez, 619.904.2137, grodriguez@portofsandiego.org
The Port of San Diego has implemented approximately 66 percent of the goals and objectives outlined in its Maritime Clean Air Strategy (MCAS), according to the latest MCAS Highlights Report released this month. In support of its “Health Equity for All” vision, the MCAS identifies projects and initiatives to improve environmental and public health through cleaner air for all who live, work, and play on and around San Diego Bay while also supporting efficient and modern maritime operations.
“In less than three years since we adopted the MCAS, the Port and our partners have done an impressive amount of work to improve air quality and public health,” said Chairman Frank Urtasun, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “With deployment of new technologies, we are proud to be a port of firsts as we prove that we can be good neighbors to our portside communities and continue to bring economic opportunities to the region."
To enhance community engagement, the Port conducted stakeholder and community outreach to help inform the projects and objectives in the MCAS. The commitment of the Port along with its partners, has resulted in approximately $125 million for maritime electrification and efficiency efforts to-date. Some of those efforts include:
- 16 fully electric pieces of cargo handling equipment including two all- electric mobile harbor cranes – the first ever in North America, two reach stackers, two heavy lifts, three forklifts, and seven yard trucks
- 25 electric vehicles for the Port’s fleet
- The eWolf, an electric tug operated by Crowley Marine, the first electric tugboat in operation in the U.S.
- Electrical infrastructure upgrades at the National City Marine Terminal
- Cruise ship terminal upgrades including additional shore power connections
- A microgrid and other electrical infrastructure improvements at the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal
In addition to electrical infrastructure and equipment upgrades, the MCAS has also focused on community enrichment through various outreach and engagement events and the launch of the Portside Community Academy. Developed in 2023, the Portside Community Academy provides structured education on maritime-related air quality projects being pursued by the Port. Additionally, the Port expanded funding for its Maritime Industrial Impact Fund (MIIF), which has supported free electric community shuttles in National City – Free Ride Around National City (FRANC), the purchase of residential air purifiers in Barrio Logan, and more.
With all the work accomplished, there are still more projects on the horizon, including:
- Shore power enhancement at the B Street Cruise Ship Terminal
- Harbor Drive 2.0 – a modern truck route for the efficient movement of goods and enhanced pedestrian, bicycle and transit connections.
- Additional Port zero-emission fleet vehicles and charging infrastructure
- Electrical upgrades at Tuna Harbor Wharf
- Shore power installation at the National City Marine Terminal
- A bonnet system, also known as an emissions capture control system for ocean going vessels not equipped to connect to shore power
- A zero-emissions truck stop in West National City in partnership with Skycharger, LLC
To learn more about the MCAS and to read the full highlights report, visit portofsandiego.org/mcas.
About THE Port of San Diego
The Port of San Diego serves the people of California as a specially created district, balancing multiple uses on 34 miles along San Diego Bay spanning five cities. Collecting no tax dollars, the Port manages a diverse portfolio to generate revenues that support vital public services and amenities.
The Port champions Maritime, Waterfront Development, Public Safety, Experiences and Environment, all focused on enriching the relationship people and businesses have with our dynamic waterfront. From cargo and cruise terminals to hotels and restaurants, from marinas to museums, from 22 public parks to countless events, the Port contributes to the region’s prosperity and remarkable way of life on a daily basis.
ABOUT PORT OF SAN DIEGO ENVIRONMENT
Port of San Diego Environment champions the safekeeping and environmental care of our diverse ecosystems. Year after year, environmental goals are set and measured to evolve environmental initiatives – ensuring San Diego Bay remains a vibrant resource and contributes to a remarkable way of life for visitors and residents for generations to come.