The Ohio Department of Development launched today the second round of funding under the Diesel Emission Reduction Grant (DERG) program.  There will be at least $9.8 million in funding available in the second round.  You can receive funding of up to 80% of the cost (requires a 20% match) for cost of equipment related to reducing diesel emissions.

 You can access the new application, updated guidance and sample Public Private Partnership (PPP) agreement directly on their web page.  Here is the schedule for the second round:

Release of RFP -December 18, 2008
Bidder Conferences– January 12, 2009, 10:00 a.m.
                                       February 9, 2009, 10:00 a.m.
Deadline to submit applications– March 2, 2009
Announcement of award- May 1, 2009

Changes were made to the program to try and overcome the issues experienced in the first round.  They include:

  1. One application for any type of project (Repair, Replacement or Repower)
  2. Two bidder conference calls where anyone can call in and ask questions regarding the application or requirements for the program.
  3. Application checklist to ensure all the required documents have been submitted.  Failure to file a complete application will result in disqualification.  In the first round 32 applications were deemed incomplete and rejected.