PERC pushing transit agencies to apply for DOT grant funding

The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) is encouraging public transit agencies to apply for up to $85 million in competitive grant funds from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to purchase propane autogas transit vehicles as part of its Low or No Emission (Low-No) Bus Program.

The program sponsors the purchase or lease of low- or no-emission public transit vehicles using advanced technologies for transit revenue operations, including related equipment or facilities.

A low- or no-emission transit vehicle must significantly reduce energy consumption or harmful emissions when compared to a standard vehicle. Projects may also include the costs for workforce training and administration expenses, PERC explains.

“Grants like the Low-No Bus Program are great ways for fleet managers to take advantage of both the financial and environmental benefits of propane autogas buses,” says Michael Taylor, director of autogas business development for PERC. “Not only will fleets be able to use the money to purchase new transit vehicles, refueling equipment and infrastructure, but they will also enjoy savings throughout the lifetime of the buses because propane autogas offers the lowest total cost-of-ownership of any fuel.”

In 2018, the program received 151 applications, and 52 projects were funded for a total of $84.4 million. The largest amount awarded to a single applicant was $2.29 million, and no state received more than 5 percent of the total funding available, PERC says.

The FTA will award grants based on the applicant’s need, project benefits, implementation strategy and capacity. Applications are due by May 14, 2019, and awarded funds will be available for use through September 2022.

*Featured photo courtesy of PERC