On September 29, the Department of Environmental Protection announced $3 million in funding through the Driving PA Forward - Truck & Bus Fleet Grant Program (formerly the Class 8 Truck and Transit Bus Grant Program).

Funding for the grant program comes from the Environmental Mitigation Trust Fund (as a result of a settlement against Volkswagen) and the Zero Emission Vehicle Fund.

The awards are for conversions of older diesel-powered vehicles to new clean diesel-powered vehicles leading to air quality benefits in high priority, high population density, and high traffic density areas.

Five applicants were recommended for funding: Carlisle Carrier, LLC, Pennsylvania Coach Lines, Inc., Fullington School Bus, LLC, Upper Darby Township, and First Student, Inc. DEP will fully fund First Student’s project due to their efforts in meeting energy, environmental, and economic development goals.

“We are grateful to the awardees for their commitment to converting their vehicle fleets to clean diesel-powered vehicles, which decreases air pollutants, making Pennsylvania’s air cleaner,” said DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell.

Conversions to clean diesel trucks and buses reduce large amounts of nitrogen oxide pollution from these vehicles, leading to less fine particulate matter and ozone formation. The recommended projects will also reduce hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide.

Click Here for a list of grants awarded.

Related Open Grant Opportunities

-- November 12-- DEP Driving PA Forward Onroad Rebate Program

-- December 31-- DEP Alternative Fueled Vehicle Rebates (apply anytime)

-- December 31-- DEP Energy Efficiency Loan Fund (apply anytime)

-- December 31-- DEP Fast Charging Hydrogen Fueling Grants (first-come, first-served)

-- December 31-- DEP Level 2 Electric Vehicle Charging Station Rebates (apply anytime)

Related Article:

-- Pennsylvania Lawmakers Explore Latest EVs During Ride-and-Drive At State Capitol Event, Including Mack Truck

[Posted: September 29, 2021]

10/4/2021