WASHINGTON -- The E.P.A. (EPA) is announcing the availability of $13.5 million in grant backing 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.
Priority is given to fleets operating at goods-movements facilities in areas designated as having poor air quality, plans that engage and benefit local communities, and applicants that demonstrate an ability continue their emission-reduction efforts after the plan has ended.
"Governments and nonprofits who install clean diesel technology are doing in excess of just saving money --- they're creating cleaner, healthier air for their employees and their community's residents," said Chris Grundler, director of 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."
Nearly all Hwy. freight trucks, locomotives and commercial marine vessels are powered by diesel engines. Diesel engines are extremely efficient but emit air pollutants linked to a range of serious health problems including asthma, lung and heart disease, other respiratory ailments, and even premature death.
Since 2008, E.P.A. has awarded nearly 650 grants under the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA). The plans fund clean diesel technology such as emissions and idle control devices, aerodynamic equipment, engine and vehicle replacements and alternative fuel options.
Between ten and 40 assistance agreements will be awarded under this year's competition. The accessible backing for individual proposals varies by region.
To submit a DERA grant proposal, visit
http://www.epa.gov/otaq/diesel/prgnational.htm.
For more information on the National Clean Diesel campaign, visit
http://www.epa.gov/cleandiesel
