Funding for shore power at Canadian ports to boost business and tourism and protect the environment

OTTAWA, May 4, 2012 /CNW/ - The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, today announced that the Government of Canada is continuing its commitment to limit air emissions from the Canadian transportation sector by inviting applications for funding under the $27.2-million Shore Power Technology for Ports Program.

The Shore Power Technology for Ports Program will provide cost-shared funding for the installation of marine shore power at Canadian ports. This innovative technology allows ships to plug into the local electrical grid to power the vessel and turn off their diesel engines when docked.

"Our investment in shore power will reduce emissions from ports, support a cleaner environment and protect the health of Canadians by improving the quality of air we breathe," said Minister Lebel.  "This program will boost the competitiveness of Canadian ports, provide new opportunities for growth in the tourism sector, and create jobs across the country."

By offering an alternative to running diesel engines, marine shore power will help ship operators to reduce fuel consumption and cut fuel costs. This will help Canadian ports attract new business and remain competitive for the future.  Shore power technology will also improve local air quality by reducing air pollution from ships in some of Canada's largest urban centres.

Funding for the Shore Power Technology for Ports Program is part of the Government of Canada's Clean Air Agenda and will help to achieve Canada's economy-wide target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 17 percent from 2005 levels by 2020.

Canadian port authorities and private organizations engaged in operating and/or owning marine ports and terminals in Canada are encouraged to apply for funding by September 28, 2012. A guide for applicants and additional information is available on Transport Canada's website at http://www.tc.gc.ca/sptp.

 

Geneviève Sicard
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Denis Lebel
Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities
and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of
Canada for the Regions of Quebec
Ottawa
613-991-0700

Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055

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