SCDES now accepting applications for projects aimed at reducing diesel emissions
May 5, 2026
The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) announced the availability of grant funding aimed at reducing diesel emissions and improving air quality throughout the state. Diesel emissions make up a significant portion of the mobile source air pollution in South Carolina. The DERA grant from Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2024 is now open. SCDES was awarded approximately $408,000 to be used for the replacement or upgrade of older diesel vehicles, engines, and equipment. The funds are provided through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) program.
“Diesel engines last a long time, and many older-model diesel engines are still in use throughout our state. Older engines have significantly higher emissions than similar, newer engines,” said Rhonda Thompson, Chief of SCDES’s Bureau of Air Quality. Thompson believes the “funded projects will provide reduced diesel emissions and improvements to South Carolina’s public health and environment.”
DERA funding is intended for county, city, or other local government entities, private businesses, colleges and universities, and non-profit organizations. DERA grants are awarded to eligible applicants for the implementation of diesel emissions reduction projects which will positively impact air quality and public health. Projects should be cost-effective, easily feasible, and reduce emissions through engine repowers, equipment and exhaust retrofits, or equipment replacements. DERA grants typically cover 25% of eligible costs; however, the award can be more dependent on the type of project. The applicant is responsible for the remaining costs.
Previous DERA grant funding has been used to support a variety of different types of emissions reduction projects statewide. Examples include replacing concrete trucks, repowering a marine vessel, and retrofitting school buses.
The FFY2024 SC State DERA Request for Proposals (RFP) contains detailed eligibility criteria and application instructions. Applications for the FFY2024 SC State DERA grant cycle are due by Friday, June 12, 2026.
The RFP and a complete list of past projects funded by DERA grants in South Carolina can be found on the SCDES DERA webpage. Please email [email protected] with any questions related to the RFP or DERA grants in South Carolina.
