WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new round of funding is available in the Diesel Emission Reduction (DERA) program.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on Tuesday that about $44 million is available for projects aimed at reducing emissions from aging diesel engines, particularly in areas designated as having poor air quality, according to a news release from the agency. Priority will be given to projects that engage and benefit local communities and applicants that demonstrate their ability to continue efforts to reduce emissions after the project has ended. The agency anticipates making between 40 and 60 grant agreements from this round of funding.

“Modernizing our nation’s aging fleet of diesel-powered vehicles is an important part of the Trump Administration’s plan to further reduce harmful emissions and guide counties and states from nonattainment, into attainment,” said Andrew Wheeler, EPA administrator. “Our hope is that through these upgrades and ongoing efforts, communities will continue to see improved health outcomes for their residents, ensuring all Americans breathe cleaner air.”

Applicants may request funding to upgrade or replace diesel-powered buses, trucks, marine engines, locomotives, and nonroad equipment with newer, cleaner technologies, according to the agency. Nonprofit organizations are also eligible to apply if they provide pollution reduction or educational services to diesel fleet owners, or have the promotion of transportation or air quality.

For more information on the new round of funding, go here. The deadline to submit applications is Feb. 26, 2020.

The EPA also anticipates releasing a separate Tribal DERA grant opportunity in early 2020. As previously reported, the agency announced in September another round of national DERA rebates available for school bus replacement, totaling about $10 million.