Diesel engine funding helps reduce pollution

Applications are now accepted for projects that reduce diesel emissions, and improve Wisconsin’s air quality and human health. Approximately $385,000 of funds are available to reduce emissions from eligible diesel engines across the state.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began awarding clean diesel grants in 2008, under the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA), a grant program created by Congress, as part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, to reduce emissions from older diesel engines.

While aging diesel engines often remain reliable, they produce more pollution than newer engines. The DERA program has helped improve Wisconsin’s air quality, by reducing emissions that contribute to fine particulate, ozone and carbon monoxide levels.

Older engines are also a source of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, an important greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Clean diesel grant programs such as DERA have reduced CO2 emissions in Wisconsin, by more than 600,000 tons over the lifetime of these programs.

In addition to improving air quality, reducing diesel emissions also helps vehicle owners reduce fuel consumption and operating costs.

The equipment and vehicles eligible for funding, include school and transit buses, as well as non-road engines, equipment and vehicles used in construction, cargo handling and agriculture.

Eligible recipients include private, non-profit and public entities, that own or operate diesel fleets, and equipment in Wisconsin. The DNR administers this grant, with funding provided by the EPA.

The deadline for submitting grant applications is 5 p.m., June 23. For any questions regarding the funding opportunity, email DNRCleanDiesel@wisconsin.gov.