The Port of Vancouver USA is expected to receive $318,000 from the Washington State Department of Ecology toward the purchase of an all-electric forklift, the seaport announced July 25.
The port itself is also spending $79,568 for the forklift acquisition.
“We’re so pleased to have secured grant funding … to replace an old, diesel forklift with brand new electric equipment,” port CEO Julianna Marler said. “This upgrade represents another step in our journey to cut emissions in line with our Climate Action Plan, while enhancing our ability to move cargo and operate efficiently.”
The new forklift, which is expected to replace a 1978 diesel-powered version, is part of a larger effort to cycle out older diesel vehicles and equipment operated by the port and other entities with vehicles and equipment run on zero emissions.
“In addition to carbon reduction benefits, electric equipment has fewer moving parts than traditional diesel equipment – equating to lower operating costs and less maintenance,” the port said in a statement.
