For Immediate Release:  September 9, 2024

Contact:  Erin Hatfield, (405) 702-7119

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is pleased to announce the availability of funding for the Oklahoma Clean Diesel Program (DERA) to be spent towards reducing diesel emissions in the state.

The Clean Diesel / DERA program is offering at least $331,700 but projected to be as much as $1,305,000 if expected additional federal funding is granted. This money can be used towards the replacement of EMY 2009 diesel school buses with new 2021 or newer diesel, gasoline, propane, natural gas, or all-electric buses. This program will reimburse up to 25% of the cost of bus purchase.

Reimbursement amounts:

• may fund up to 25% of the cost of a new replacement vehicle powered by a 2021 model year or newer engine certified to EPA emission standards.
• may fund up to 35% of the cost of a new replacement vehicle powered by a 2021 model year or newer engine certified to meet CARB’s Optional Low-NOx Standards.
• may fund up to 45% of the cost of a new 2021 model year or newer zero-emission (all-electric) replacement vehicle. Eligible cost can include the purchase and installation of one charging unit per vehicle, including the unit and charging cable, mount and/or pedestal.

The Grant Solicitation and Application for the program will be available on the Clean Diesel/DERA webpage, https://www.deq.ok.gov/air-quality-division/clean-diesel-dera/. Applications will be accepted through end of business on November 1, 2024.

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