The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the availability of $13.5 million in grant funding under its Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA) program to help governments and nonprofit organizations switch to cleaner diesel engines. Local governments, tribal agencies and nonprofits can win grants up to $2.14 million each.
Eligible applicants include regional, state, local or tribal agencies, and port authorities with jurisdiction over transportation or air quality. Nonprofit organizations may apply if they provide pollution reduction or educational services to diesel fleet owners or if their principal purpose is promoting clean transportation or air quality.
The EPA says priority is given to fleets operating at goods-movements facilities in areas designated as having poor air quality, projects that engage and benefit local communities, and applicants that demonstrate an ability continue their emission-reduction efforts after the project has ended.
“Governments and nonprofits who install clean diesel technology are doing more than just saving money – they're creating cleaner, healthier air for their employees and their community's residents,” says Chris Grundler, director of the EPA's Office of Transportation and Air Quality. “Our goal is to help diesel fleets across the country make this a reality, grant by grant.”
Since 2008, the EPA has awarded nearly 650 grants under the DERA program. The projects fund clean diesel technology such as emissions and idle control devices, aerodynamic equipment, engine and vehicle replacements and alternative fuel options.
Between 10 and 40 assistance agreements will be awarded under this year's competition. The available funding for individual proposals varies by region.
For more information – and to learn how to submit a DERA grant proposal – click here.
