Port of Los Angeles Expands Engine Exchange Program

The Port of Los Angeles has expanded its existing Marina Engine Exchange Program to include all-electric and alternatively fuelled motors.

Considering that the all-electric engines provide a greater emissions benefit, and recognizing that most are significantly more expensive than the combustion based motors, the Port of Los Angeles will offer up to $3,000 to boat owners choosing to purchase an electric motor.

Originally introduced in 2012, the Marina Engine Exchange Program provides funding (75% of the total cost, up to $2,000) for local boat owners to upgrade old, highly polluting motors with California Air Resources Board (CARB) three-star certified ultra-low emission motors. To date, the program has helped purchase nearly 100 outboard motors, resulting in the reduction of approximately 7,150 pounds of hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen annually.

New alternatively fuelled engines all meet CARB’s exhaust emission standards, while all-electric engines have zero exhaust emissions.

In order to qualify, an applicant’s boat must have an operational, two-stroke outboard motor no greater than 20 horsepower and be located in a Port of Los Angeles marina. The old motor will be replaced with an approximate equivalent horsepower rating (up to 15 horsepower). Upon engine replacement, the boat must remain in a Port of Los Angeles marina for at least one year.

For an application form, click here, email [email protected], or call (310) 732-2675. Grant funding will be approved until all available funds have been distributed.