On May 3, 2023, EPA released an RFI requesting technical comments on zero-emissions heavy-duty vehicles and port equipment to develop two new IRA programs: the Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles (HDV) Program created by IRA section 60101, and the Grants to Reduce Air Pollution and Ports Program (the Clean Ports Program), created by IRA section 60102. The Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Program allocates $1 billion in grants and rebates to states, municipalities, Tribes, or nonprofit school transportation associations for the funding of zero-emission vehicle adaptation and infrastructure purchasing, installation, operating, and/or maintenance. The Clean Ports Program allocates $3 billion in grants and rebates to port authorities, governmental or tribal agencies with authority over a port, air pollution control agencies, or relevant private entities to purchase and install, plan and permit, and/or develop climate action plans relating to zero-emission port equipment or technology.
EPA seeks information specifically on zero-emission class 6 and 7 HDVs (e.g., school buses, refuse trucks, utility trucks, day cab tractors, etc.), zero-emission port equipment (e.g. harbor craft, locomotives, cargo handling equipment, etc.), and associated charging or other fueling infrastructure. EPA requests details regarding technology availability, market-readiness, performance, pricing, domestic materials sourcing and manufacturing, and other practical considerations. This information will help EPA understand the availability of U.S. manufactured equipment to help create targeted programs and address the Build America Buy America requirements. Comments are due June 5, 2023.