On Tuesday, April 24, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of grant funding nationwide to modernize fleets to cleaner, more efficient diesel engines. It is anticipated the Diesel Emission Reduction Program (DERA) will be awarded $40 million in grant funding.
Virginia is part of the Region 3 geographic location, which will accept proposals requesting up to $2,500,000 in grant funds. School districts are among eligible applicants who will be able to apply for funding to update their school bus fleets with new diesel engines.
Proposal packages must be submitted electronically to the EPA through Grants.gov no later than June 12, 2018 at 11:59 p.m. to be considered for funding. Selections applicants will be notified in July 2018. More information about applicant requirements, the proposal process, and deadlines can be found on the EPA’s website.
Other Clean Diesel Funding Programs:
Clean Diesel Rebates: The Diesel Emissions Reduction Act of 2010 (DERA) allows the EPA to offer rebates in addition to grants to reduce emissions from older diesel vehicles. Replacements can qualify for $15-$20k per bus, depending on the GVWR of the replacement bus. 2017 application period currently closed. Check the EPA website for the most up-to-date information.
Volkswagen Settlement Agreements: Administered by Virginia Dept. of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Virginia anticipated to receive $93.6 million from the Trust between 2017 and 2027.