The SC Ports Authority has announced a new Clean Truck Certification Program to take effect on January 1, 2014, ensuring that a reliable, cleaner trucking fleet will serve SCPA container terminals in order to continue reducing port-related air emissions.
Launched as a result of the Navy Base Terminal permit process, the program requires trucks serving the container terminals to have engines manufactured in 1994 or later. Based on engine year rather than truck model year, the certification is designed with maximum flexibility for the trucking industry. Truck owners must enroll in the program using the website below between November 1st, 2013 and January 1, 2014.
“The Port is committed to operating in a way that is mindful of the environment and good for business,” said Jim Newsome, SCPA President and CEO. “By implementing this program, we achieve a reduction in the air quality impacts resulting from an older truck fleet, and modernize the over-the-road equipment just as we are doing on terminal with newer equipment. The Clean Truck Certification program is the next step in our well-established, common sense port-related emissions reductions strategy.”
During the month of November, the SCPA will continue offer an incentive of $5,000 plus scrap value to truck owners who use this opportunity to upgrade their truck engines. Over the last two years the SCPA has offered the only truck replacement incentive program in the Southeast, with 84 trucks replaced to date. Together the SCPA and SCDHEC have spent in excess of $1,000,000 on promotion and implementation of the truck replacement program.
"I didn't realize how much of a difference this program would make,” said truck driver Donald MacKinnon. “My 1992 International was still working fine, but with the help of the Truck Replacement Program, I was able to replace it with a 2007 Freightliner. With my new truck, I don't feel as tired at the end of the day, and I'm less worried about mechanical issues. I would recommend this to other drivers."
A limited number of hardship registrations will be available on a first come, first serve basis for trucks who have called on terminals at least 52 times in the previous 52 weeks. Hardship registrations will be accepted beginning on November 1, 2013 and will expire on June 30, 2014. Trucks calling on the terminals that do not have a hardship registration and have not been certified will be allowed to enter one time. They will be informed of the new certification program and directed to driver’s assistance.
“As truckers and residents of the Lowcountry, we seek to provide motor carrier service using the most fuel efficient and cleanest burning trucks possible,” said Keith Johnson, President of the Charleston Motor Carriers Association. “We support the Clean Truck Program and the opportunity it gives our members to upgrade their truck engines. This is a positive initiative both for our industry and for the environment.”
SCPA will conduct on-terminal spot checks to confirm engine year, and the program pertains to all container facilities including the SC Inland Port.
Registration Website: cleantruck.scspa.com
For media questions about the program, contact Erin Pabst at 843-577-8121.
For driver inquiries, please contact Patrick Moore at 843-577-8175.