FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 3, 2022

Advocacy Press Release: AAPA Endorses the Bipartisan Hydrogen for Ports Act

Washington, D.C. — Today, the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) is proud to announce its strong support of the Hydrogen for Ports Act, legislation recently introduced as part of package by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and John Cornyn (R-TX), to support the adoption of hydrogen in the port industry. Hydrogen energy infrastructure has the potential to kick start a wave of growth in maritime transportation while creating another tool in the energy mix to mitigate emissions.

Hydrogen, a clean and energy-rich fuel source, holds incredible potential for reducing carbon emissions and diversifying energy sources at our nation's ports. Ports are big movers and users of energy, and hydrogen will allow ports on every coast of the country to play a big role in the future of international shipping and domestic energy security. Thanks to initiatives like the POWERS program, the maritime industry is well-positioned, with important federal assistance from legislation like the Hydrogen for Ports Act, to continue playing a critical role in adapting to and addressing a changing climate. More information about how AAPA and our partners are creating new economic opportunities with alternative fuels is available on the POWERS Program website.

"Ports are ideal spaces to invest in hydrogen and ammonia infrastructure since investments there will make fuel available for marine, rail, and truck applications," said Chris Connor, AAPA President, and CEO. "The Hydrogen for Ports Act will make innovative energy projects around the country possible, mitigating emissions and opening up new opportunities for jobs and economic growth. The American Association of Port Authorities is grateful that Congress has recognized the importance of the maritime industry and is excited to work with the bill's sponsors to create a robust hydrogen industry in America."

AAPA is grateful for the bill sponsors' focus on the maritime industry and their willingness to work with the industry on this legislation as it was re-introduced in this Congress. We call on Congress to pass the Hydrogen for Ports Act and take a bold first step to create new opportunities for hydrogen in America's ports and waterways.

The legislation was also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Bill Cassidy (R-LA.), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM).

The full initiative is endorsed by RMI, Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) Action, Clean Air Task Force, ClearPath Action, Third Way, the University of Delaware, Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association, Information Technology & Innovation Foundation, Industrial Innovation Initiative, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Global Energy Institute, AltaSea, CALSTART, Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions, Clean Hydrogen Future Coalition, Cummins, Nikola, LanzaTech, Fortescue Future Industries, Air Products, Linde, Air Liquide, Bloom Energy, Chemours, Hy Stor Energy, PDC Machines, ENGIE, and Baker Hughes.

Find the bill text for the Hydrogen for Ports Act here.

Find additional endorsing quotes here.

About AAPA

The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) is the unified voice of port leaders and maritime industry partners across the Western Hemisphere who serve a vital role in job-creation, international competitiveness, and economic prosperity. Connecting small business owners, retailers, and manufacturers to the global marketplace, AAPA member organizations sustain 31 million jobs and 26 percent of the U.S. economy, and advocate for national policies and infrastructure investments in support of a resilient global supply chain and a positive impact on the way people live, work, travel, and engage in commerce. Visit www.aapa-ports.org or on Twitter @PortsUnited.

Please direct all media inquiries to Shawn Balcomb, Public Affairs Manager at sbalcomb@aapa-ports.org.

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