Energy Department Announces up to $10 Million to Promote Zero Emission Cargo Transport Vehicles

(Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy)March 20, 2012 - Energy Secretary Steven Chu today announced up to $10 million available this year to demonstrate and deploy electric transportation technologies for cargo vehicles, such as trucks and forklifts. The Energy Department's support for the development and demonstration of innovative alternative vehicle technologies is helping reduce the nation's reliance on gasoline and diesel and diversifying our nation's energy portfolio. The Administration's investments in advanced vehicles are part of a comprehensive strategy to cut America's oil imports, develop clean alternative fuel vehicles, and help protect American families and businesses from spikes in oil prices.

Electrifying cargo transportation vehicles and infrastructure will slash petroleum use, carbon emissions, and air pollution at transportation hubs, such as ports. The Department seeks applicants for this funding to demonstrate cost-effective zero emission cargo transport systems and collect detailed performance and cost data to analyze the benefits and viability of this approach to freight transportation.

This funding opportunity is open to local governments and private companies, with federal funds matched in a 50% cost share. Detailed application instructions, including eligibility, can be found on DOE's Funding Opportunity Exchange website under Reference Number DE-FOA-0000669. Applications will be accepted until 8 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on May 15, 2012. DOE anticipates notifying applicants selected for award by the end of July 2012, and making at least one award by September 30, 2012.

The Energy Department's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy accelerates development and facilitates deployment of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies and market-based solutions that strengthen U.S. energy security, environmental quality, and economic vitality. Learn more about DOE's efforts to meet tomorrow's transportation challenges with an integrated portfolio of advanced vehicle and fuel research, development, demonstration, and deployment activities.