WASHINGTON, D.C. — More grant funding is now available in the Diesel Emission Reduction (DERA) program.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on Thursday that about $40 million is available for projects that significantly reduce diesel emissions, particularly in areas designated as having poor air quality. Priority will be granted to projects that benefit communities and applicants that demonstrate an ability to continue efforts to reduce emissions after the project has ended. The agency anticipates making between 40 and 80 awards from this round of funding.

“By financially supporting projects that upgrade aging diesel engines, EPA is helping improve their efficiency and reduce air pollution throughout the nation,” said EPA Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler. “From our grant programs to our new Cleaner Trucks Initiative, EPA is taking important steps to help modernize heavy-duty trucks and provide cleaner, more efficient methods of transportation that will protect the environment and keep our economy growing.”

School buses are included in the vehicle types that are eligible for the funding and school districts are among the eligible entities.

Funds can be used for clean diesel projects such as EPA- or CARB-verified technologies or certified engines; EPA-verified idle-reduction technologies, aerodynamic technologies, and low-rolling resistance tires; and early engine, vehicle, or equipment replacements with certified engine configurations.

For more information on the new round of grants, go here. The deadline to submit proposals is March 6, 2019, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern.