July 07, 2022

Wyden, Merkley, Blumenauer: More than $18.4 Million to Portland International Airport for Improvements That Will Lower Emissions

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley along with Congressman Earl Blumenauer today announced that Portland International Airport (PDX) will receive more than $18.4 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for improvements to heating and cooling systems that will dramatically lower energy demand by 83 percent.

“Portland’s airport has grown so much in the past few years—in size, overall use and in sustainability practices,” Wyden said. ”The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law I am proud to have supported makes this essential investment in the infrastructure at the airport for more effective heating and cooling in line with urgent nationwide goals to tackle the climate crisis head-on by lowering carbon emissions.” 

“Major investments in efficient, cost-saving, and climate friendly improvements at PDX is win-win for Portland and the State of Oregon,” Merkley said. “Transitioning to clean heat pumps isn't just good for our present, it’s good for our future by getting us closer to zero carbon emissions by 2050. This is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work!” 

”Portland has long been a leader in sustainable infrastructure and our city’s airport is an important reflection of this legacy,” Blumenauer said. “I was proud to lead the Oregon delegation in securing $18.4 million dollars from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to increase the efficacy, sustainability and resilience of our airport. This historic investment is not just good for our community, but our climate.”

PDX will use the $18.4 million to install a new heat pump, replacing old chillers and boilers that are up to 50 years old. The new heat pump will reduce carbon emissions and provide an estimated 83 percent reduction in energy demand to heat and cool the building. This project will have a goal of zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“We appreciate the Oregon Congressional Delegation’s support for this grant,” said Port of Portland Executive Director Curtis Robinhold. “We remain firmly committed to a low-carbon future. The federal funds for this new system – which will improve the energy efficiency of PDX and significantly reduce the environmental impact of our new upgraded airport – will help us fully achieve our vision of a more sustainable and equitable PDX.”