Thousand Oaks, CA – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D – Westlake Village) and the Port of Hueneme Board of Harbor Commissioners announced the launch of Phase II of the Port’s Grid-Based Shore Power Project. Brownley secured a $500,000 grant for this project that will significantly reduce diesel emissions from refrigerated cargo vessels.

“The Port of Hueneme is an essential economic driver to our region and I am proud to have worked with community stakeholders and port leaders to support the grant for Phase II of the Shore Power Project,” said Congresswoman Julia Brownley. “This project is a win for improving our environment, growing our local economy, and increasing the competitiveness of the port in the international marketplace.”

“This grant provided the funding necessary to complete this vital Grid-Based Shore Power System and ensure that emissions will be reduced at the Port,” said Kristin Decas, CEO and Port Director at the Port of Hueneme. “We extend our gratitude to Congresswoman Brownley for her leadership and support.”

According to the Port of Hueneme Board of Harbor Commissioners, Phase II will complete the Port’s Grid-Based Shore Power System that will allow refrigerated cargo vessels, called “reefer vessels,” to run their auxiliary marine engines on shore power instead of diesel fuel.  The project is anticipated to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“The Port of Hueneme is critical to the economic health of Ventura County and Southern California,” said Brownley in a letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency supporting the grant request for the Phase II Shore Power Infrastructure Project. Since coming to Congress, Brownley has been a staunch advocate for the Port of Hueneme, helping to bring in grants for infrastructure improvements, environmental infrastructure, and port security enhancements to ensure the future viability of the Port as a regional economic engine and job creator.

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