The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is offering over $2 million in Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) grant funding to support clean diesel projects for heavy-duty off-road equipment in Minnesota. This funding aims to reduce diesel emissions from existing diesel fleets to improve air quality and public health across the state. Eligible applicants include diesel fleet owners from for-profit, nonprofit, and government sectors, as well as grant contractors representing eligible clients. The maximum funding per project is $500,000, with a required cash match that varies based on project category. The application deadline is December 20, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. Central Time.

Questions regarding the application process or eligibility must be directed to grants.pca@state.mn.us by December 13, 2024, with "FFY 24 DERA Grant Question" as the subject line. MPCA will host an informational webinar on November 13, 2024, at 2 p.m., covering the application process and eligibility criteria. A recording of the webinar will be made available online. Applicants are encouraged to use the SWIFT Supplier Portal for all communications and submissions; unauthorized contact with MPCA staff may result in disqualification.

Eligible projects should focus on reducing diesel emissions for equipment operating off-road in Minnesota. The program covers entities such as local, state, and tribal governments; nonprofits; and private companies that own or operate diesel-powered off-road equipment. Grantees are required to provide a cash match, which cannot come from DERA, VW settlement funds, or other federal sources, but may include cash, loans, other grants, or capital assets. Small businesses can explore the zero-interest Small Business Environmental Improvement Loan, which can also be applied toward the match requirement. Projects are encouraged to complete expeditiously, though funding remains available through September 30, 2026.

To apply, applicants must access the RFP and application materials through the SWIFT portal, listed under “MPCA-Clean Heavy-Duty Off-Road Equipment Grant” or ID “2000016356.” The portal allows applicants to view the necessary documents under “Bidding Opportunities” and to submit applications directly. New applicants must register as bidders, following the instructions on the SWIFT portal to either create an account or use an existing supplier ID. For registration assistance or portal issues, applicants can contact the SWIFT Vendor Assistance Help Desk at 651-201-8100, option 1.

This funding is part of Minnesota’s broader efforts to reduce diesel emissions and promote cleaner, more sustainable fuel usage in public and private sectors. By targeting heavy-duty equipment, the MPCA aims to make significant strides in reducing air pollutants, improving environmental quality, and supporting healthier communities statewide.