EPA announces funding opportunity for projects to reduce diesel emissions

Image of GettyImages-1212249706.jpg

On January 15, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of grant funding to implement projects aimed at reducing emissions from the nation’s existing fleet of older diesel engines. Through the Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA), EPA is awarding approximately $46 million to eligible applicants. Through the program, EPA anticipates awarding 40 to 70 assistance agreements. EPA is accepting applications through Tuesday, March 16. For further information on the program and how to apply, click here

Since 2008, the EPA, through the DERA program, has awarded over 850 grants and 450 rebates across the country. Many of these projects funded cleaner engines that operate in economically disadvantaged communities whose residents suffer from higher-than-average instances of asthma, heart and lung disease. EPA is soliciting applications nationwide for projects that significantly reduce diesel emissions and exposure, especially from fleets operating at goods movements facilities in areas designated as having poor air quality. To view previous DERA grant awardees, click here.

As major owners of the nation’s public road miles and bridges and as environmental stewards, counties support DERA to help counties reduce particulate matter pollution in order to meet federal clean air standards. Owning 45 percent of America’s public road miles and 38 percent of the National Bridge Inventory, counties and our residents are directly affected by emissions from diesel engines. NACo supports DERA and appreciates that Congress included $90 million for Fiscal Year 2021 in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021.

Related News

Jeremy J. Chatelain rides a trail in El Paso County, Colo. using an off-road wheelchair. Photo courtesy of Jeremy J. Chatelain
County News

County offers off-road wheelchairs for visitors with disability, mobility issues

El Paso County, Colo.’s Trailability Program offers off-road wheelchairs for county park visitors with disabilities and mobility issues, increasing access to nature and reinvigorating residents’ love for the outdoors. 

Solar panels
Advocacy

U.S. Treasury issues final regulations for Inflation Reduction Act elective pay mechanism

On March 5, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service issued final regulations for the elective pay mechanism established in the Inflation Reduction Act.

Shipping port
Advocacy

EPA opens $3 billion Clean Ports Program

On February 28, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the availability of $3 billion in grant funding through the Clean Ports Program. Established under the Inflation Reduction Act, the competitive Clean Ports Program aims to help ports transition to zero-emissions operations, reduce diesel pollution and engage with the local community.