South Coast AQMD Offers New Funding for Combustion Freight and Marine Projects

California recently received $423 million from the Volkswagen (VW) Environmental Mitigation Trust to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. A portion of these funds – $60 million – is going toward the Combustion Freight and Marine program, administered by South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) to target emissions from the goods movement sector. Last month, the agency began accepting applications for the first round of $30 million which closes March 4th by 1 p.m. PST.

Funding is available for private entities and government owned and operated fleets to replace or repower older diesel-fueled vehicles and vessels that operate in California, including Class 7 and 8 freight trucks, freight switcher locomotives, ferries, tugboats, and towboats. Funding can be used for newer diesel, compressed natural gas (CNG), hybrid electric, or propane models.

South Coast AQMD plans to maximize NOx reductions by funding the most cost-effective, lowest emission engine projects. Projects throughout the state are eligible to receive funding, with at least 50% of the funds expected to benefit disadvantaged and low-income communities who are disproportionately affected by exposure to diesel emissions.

Webinar for Interested Applicants
On February 4th at 11 a.m. PST, South Coast AQMD is hosting a webinar that will provide a comprehensive overview of the available funding, application process, and evaluation criteria to help interested participants build a competitive application.

Interested parties can register here

Application Materials and Requirements
The application forms can be accessed on South Coast AQMD’s VW Funding website. The website also includes a Frequently Asked Questions section that details materials that must be submitted alongside the application (e.g., photos), as well as scrappage requirements for existing vehicles.