February 27, 2023

Oregon Delegation Announces an Additional $6 Million for Major Energy Efficiency Upgrades at PDX

PORTLAND – Today, members of the Oregon Congressional delegation announced a $6 million U.S. Department of Transportation grant award to the Port of Portland to add a ground source heat pump system. The new system will help PDX reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and reduce the energy required to heat and cool PDX by 83%. 

The grant is part of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) FY2023 Airport Terminal Program (ATP). It follows $18.4 million that was awarded to the Port of Portland in 2022 from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), bringing total federal funding for the upgrades to $24.4 million. The BIL provided $5 billion over the life of the law for competitive grants that address the aging infrastructure of the nation’s airports.

Upgrading the heating system is part of the capital construction program at PDX known as PDX NEXT. PDX NEXT is series of major projects designed to allow for significant growth while improving the resilience of the airport. In 2022, Oregon Democrats secured an additional $3.75 million for construction of a seismically resilient runway that will withstand a major earthquake. 

“As someone who spends way too much time in airports, this is great news for PDX and everyone who travels through it. I’m pleased that PDX is continuing to improve its environmental sustainability and position itself as a leader in aviation infrastructure,” said Congressman Earl Blumenauer. 

“Green infrastructure is smart infrastructure that generates jobs and energy savings in Oregon and nationwide,” Senator Ron Wyden said, “I’m glad the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law I worked to pass into law is helping to make this targeted investment in PDX with such long-lasting benefits for the airport and the battle to combat the climate crisis.” 

“PDX is a hub for many travelers on the move,” said Senator Jeff Merkley. “This funding will help to improve the critical infrastructure that we rely on when flying – whether for business or recreation. These improvements will support not only the airport, but also our environment and our fight against climate chaos with the move away from fossil fuels and toward greener energy sources for the terminal’s heating system.”

“This grant is great news for travelers and for the environment,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, “I’m pleased to have worked with my Oregon colleagues to help secure funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that will upgrade PDX and make it more energy efficient.”

Port of Portland Executive Director Curtis Robinhold said, “These FAA dollars help us deliver a new heat pump at PDX that significantly reduces our carbon emissions, even as we get bigger. We’re grateful that the Oregon delegation has worked so hard to rally federal support for this groundbreaking project.”

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