The South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources is accepting applications for funding under the South Dakota Clean Diesel Grant Program and the Volkswagen Mitigation Trust. The programs provide rebates to assist in purchasing new buses to replace old, high-emitting diesel buses.

The primary goals of the programs are to reduce students’ exposure to pollution and to facilitate the improvement and protection of the ambient air quality throughout South Dakota.

Initially, there will be approximately $280,000 of Diesel Emissions Reduction Act funds available for the projects. If the 2019 South Dakota Legislature gives spending authority for the Volkswagen Mitigation Trust, an additional $837,000 will be available.

The South Dakota programs will provide rebates to help public schools, non-public schools, state special schools, approved educational programs, shuttle or transit system providers and school bus contractors purchase new buses to replace old, high-emitting diesel buses.

Total rebate per replacement bus will be up to 25 percent of the purchase price of a 2018 engine model year or newer engine certified to EPA emission standards, 35 percent of the purchase price of a 2018 engine model year or newer engine certified to meet CARB’s Low-NOx standards, or 45 percent of the purchase price of an all-electric bus. DENR intends to award funds to as many eligible applicants throughout the state as possible.

The application deadline for initial consideration is Dec. 14. More information is available on DENR’s Clean Diesel Grant Program webpage. Questions? Contact the DENR Air Quality office at 605-773-3151.