ST. PAUL, MN - The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is looking for applicants for its federal Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA) grant funding. The RFP is for public-sector (or private) off-road diesel fleets older than 2007 that are operating in Minnesota. The program gives preference to fleets operating the Twin Cities 7-county Metro area.

Funding is available for various EPA/CARB approved technologies including: idle reduction, emission controls, hybrid replacement, and engine re-powers.

According to MCPA, the minimum award is $10,000 and the maximum is $150,000. The funding percentage varies by technology. The deadline for project completion is August 31, 2012.

MCPA cited examples of the eligible vehicles and equipment, including on-road class 5 (16,000 lbs. gross vehicle weight) or larger delivery trucks, off-road construction equipment, generators 100-500 horsepower, and refrigeration units for delivery trucks.

The clean diesel request for proposals (RFP) begins November 14, 2011 and all applications must be received by 2:00 p.m., CST, December 22, 2011.

For a copy of the RFP, those interested can contact Martina Cameron at contracts.pca@state.mn.us or by phone at (651) 757-2259.