Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has announced the availability of $183,000 in federal funds for grants to local and state governments, as well as businesses and organizations, who want to replace large, older diesel engines with electric or newer, cleaner-burning engines.
The funding, which is provided under the federal Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA) covers up to 60% of the cost of new technology to replace older diesel engines. The use of new technologies can reduce air pollution as much as 80% in addition to saving money in operating costs by decreasing fuel consumption.
Grant applications are due November 14, 2017.
DEEP is administering the DERA grants for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s State Clean Diesel Program, designed to support green technologies while reducing air pollution and addressing the public health and environmental concerns posed by diesel emissions in Connecticut.
Since 2008, $3.3 million in DERA funding has been allocated to Connecticut for projects reducing over 2,300 tons of diesel emissions.
“Diesel related emissions impact public health in Connecticut,” said DEEP Commissioner Rob Klee, “DERA is effective at reducing air pollution and this grant funding is an exceptional opportunity to save money and support green technologies while helping everyone in Connecticut breathe a little easier.”
Why Diesel Air Pollution is a Problem
Air pollution from diesel engines presents real public health concerns for Connecticut. Our communities, especially those in urban areas, suffer from exposure to sooty exhaust emitted by trucks, buses and other diesel engines. These emissions can make breathing difficult, particularly for children, the elderly, and other sensitive groups. Reducing diesel emissions is a priority for DEEP because:
- Diesel exhaust has been classified as a probable human carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA);
- Diesel engines are a significant contributor to air pollution, emitting high levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM), which exacerbates asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and similar respiratory conditions; and
- Emissions from diesel powered electricity generators used to meet peak energy demand usually occur on high ozone days, amplifying the negative health impacts of ozone.
How to Apply for Funding
DEEP is currently seeking proposals from municipalities, agencies, businesses, and organizations for environmental projects that cost-effectively reduce diesel emissions. All program limitations and requirements, forms and instructions are available on DEEP’s Diesel Grants and Funding webpage.
*Image courtesy of CT.Gov
B