The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that Colorado will receive $735,000 to purchase three zero-emission vehicles as part of the Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program. This initiative, under President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, aims to replace older internal combustion engine vehicles with zero-emission alternatives.
The grant will support the Colorado Department of Corrections’ Wild Horse Inmate Program (WHIP) by acquiring three class 7 all-electric heavy-duty trucks and a Level 3 DCFC charger. Five existing vehicles, averaging 26 years old, are set to be decommissioned.
"Colorado continues to prioritize cleaner transportation and vehicles," said Regional Administrator KC Becker. "By accelerating the transition to clean heavy-duty trucks and chargers, this grant will bring healthier air to local communities."
Nationwide, over 3 million Class 6 and Class 7 vehicles are in use, many of which emit high levels of pollutants like nitrogen oxides and greenhouse gases. These emissions are linked to health issues such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
The EPA's program is designed to reduce emissions from heavy-duty vehicles while supporting job growth and improving air quality in affected communities. The program also funds infrastructure for zero-emission vehicle fueling and workforce development.
In total, the EPA selected 71 applicants across various states and territories to receive $739 million for over 2,000 zero-emission vehicles. Proposed replacements include battery-electric trucks, buses, emergency vehicles, and more.
Approximately 70% of today's funding will go towards clean school buses. This complements the EPA’s Clean School Bus program under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
The initiative supports President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, aiming to deliver significant federal investment benefits to disadvantaged communities facing pollution challenges. About $523 million will fund projects in areas not meeting National Ambient Air Quality Standards.
Final award decisions are expected by early 2025 after fulfilling legal requirements. Project implementation will span two to three years based on project scope.
For further details or inquiries about the program, visit the Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program webpage or contact cleanhdvehicles@epa.gov.
