South Coast AQMD Awards $109 Million to Advance Zero-Emission Infrastructure in Underserved Communities
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DIAMOND BAR, Calif., Dec. 6, 2024 ~ The South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD) Governing Board has approved a significant investment of over $109 million to accelerate the development of zero-emission charging and hydrogen infrastructure. This funding will be used to install heavy-duty electric chargers and hydrogen refueling stations along critical trade corridors, including the San Pedro Bay Ports and major freeways, with a strong focus on environmental justice communities.

According to the press release, once completed, these projects are expected to reduce approximately 487 tons of smog-forming nitrogen oxides (NOx) and seven tons of particulate matter annually. This will greatly improve air quality for the region's most impacted areas. Out of the 30 projects approved, 12 are located within Assembly Bill (AB) 617 communities, with 93% of the emissions reductions directly benefiting underserved areas.

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One of the key infrastructure developments includes 21 electric charging stations equipped with more than 800 connectors and fast chargers for heavy-duty trucks. Additionally, there will be seven hydrogen refueling stations, including a flagship location at California State University, Los Angeles. This station will not only serve fuel cell vehicles but also provide workforce training and community education on hydrogen technology.

Vanessa Delgado, South Coast AQMD's Governing Board Chair, stated that these investments are crucial in supporting heavy-duty vehicle fleet owners to adopt cleaner technologies. She also emphasized that by prioritizing projects like these, they are not only addressing pollution but also ensuring equitable access to the benefits of a zero-emission future.

In December 2023, South Coast AQMD launched a solicitation for zero-emission infrastructure proposals under its Carl Moyer Program. The agency received nearly $400 million in applications, demonstrating the high demand for zero-emission heavy-duty trucks and other equipment. Projects were selected based on their ability to deliver public access, cost-effectiveness, and maximum impact on air quality in the South Coast Air Basin.

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Furthermore, the initiative is fostering collaborations with school districts like Los Angeles Unified and Moreno Valley Unified to advance the adoption of zero-emission school buses. This aligns with South Coast AQMD's goal of improving air quality for large areas of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, including the Coachella Valley.

For more information on the awarded projects, interested parties can visit https://www.aqmd.gov/docs/default-source/Agenda.... South Coast AQMD also encourages individuals to stay updated on news, air quality alerts, and events by visiting their website, downloading their award-winning app, or following them on social media platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), and Instagram.

Media contacts for this press release are Nahal Mogharabi at (909) 396-3773 or via cell at (909) 837-2431 and Connie Villanueva at (909) 396-2409 or via cell at (909) 215-5601.
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