Certain fossil fuel power units at the Holcim Detroit cement blending and distribution terminal will give way to battery electric alternatives, thanks to the producer’s participation in a Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority program supported by a $21.9 million Environmental Protection Agency grant.
“We share a strong commitment with our valued partner the Port Authority to lower our carbon emissions, not only at our Detroit Terminal but across all our operations,” said Holcim US Vice President of Integrated Supply Chain Jared Stull. “Through the grant, we’ll acquire EV equipment, taking one more step to lower our carbon footprint at the site and for the Detroit Port.”
The EPA will fund land and marine equipment electrification through its Zero-Emission Technology Deployment program to cut terminal and dock air pollution. The replacement of gas or diesel fuel with battery electric power will accelerate carbon emissions reduction measures while improving air quality in southwest Detroit and neighboring areas – collectively exhibiting the lowest air quality levels in the State of Michigan.
“This funding will help us achieve our goal of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 and improving air quality for workers, residents and visitors to this region, who have been fighting for cleaner air for decades,” notes Port Authority Board Chairman Jonathan Kinloch.