APPROPRIATIONS REQUEST

The Massachusetts Port Authority has requested Federal funding to conduct a feasibility study to assess and construct infrastructure to support the provision of shore power on the Conley Container Terminal, the Black Falcon Cruise Terminal/CruisePort Boston and the Boston Fish Pier. Air emissions from container, cruise and fishing vessels while at berth are under increased scrutiny relative to potential environmental and health effects, particularly when in close proximity to residential areas. Their air emissions can be substantially reduced by connecting vessels to shore power while moored at a facility rather than using the vessels' diesel engines and generators to run their operating systems. Ultimately, a workable shore power connection will reduce diesel emissions that are potentially harmful to the health of human and non-human populations in and around Boston Harbor.

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