LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE) is seeking proposals for potential projects that could be included in an application for a Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) National Competitive Grant. The goal of this program is to achieve significant reductions in diesel emissions.

General Eligibility Criteria
Although private fleet owners are not eligible to apply directly to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for this funding, projects involving both public and private fleets may be included in the department’s application.

NDEE is seeking proposals from public entities (including but not limited to county and municipal governments), private organizations, companies, and individuals. Eligible projects that could receive funding are:

• Replacement of medium to heavy-duty on-road diesel trucks used in local refuse hauling, delivery, construction, or maintenance operations (up to two trucks per applicant).
• Replacement of nonroad diesel equipment and vehicles used in construction or cargo handling, including railcar movers (up to two per applicant).
• All-electric replacements of diesel irrigation engines (one per applicant).

Diesel vehicles and equipment to be replaced must be in working order and under current ownership for at least the past two years. There are also minimum annual mileage or operating hour eligibility thresholds for each project category.

If NDEE’s application is successful, funds will be distributed as rebates (reimbursements) upon completion and documentation of individual projects.

Submitted proposals must contain a cost-share commitment letter, stating that the submitter will provide the funds needed for the mandatory cost-share if the project is selected. A template for a cost-share commitment letter is attached to each project information form.

Documentation of ownership, mileage/hours of use, and copies of actual price-quote documents are not required with the proposal. However, if a project is selected and funded, NDEE will require this documentation before entering into a project agreement.

Forms for submitting project proposal information, as well as detailed eligibility requirements and reimbursement rates, are available on NDEE’s website at: /forms/publications-grants-forms/22-056. 

Proposal forms and cost-share commitment letters should be submitted no later than Tuesday, September 20, 2022. Submission of a proposal does not guarantee selection or funding. Submit materials via e-mail to NDEE.AirQuality@nebraska.gov. Hand deliver or send by mail to:

Nebraska Clean Diesel Rebate Program
Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy
245 Fallbrook Blvd, Suite 100
P.O. Box 98922
Lincoln, NE 68509-8922