**In the coming months, an upgraded website dedicated to INVEST CLEAN will be launched. Please check back for updates.**
In July 2024, U.S. EPA awarded South Coast AQMD a Climate Pollution Reduction Grant of nearly $500 million for the Infrastructure, Vehicles, and Equipment Strategy for Climate, Equity, Air Quality and National Competitiveness project (INVEST CLEAN). INVEST CLEAN is a transformational initiative aimed at overcoming barriers to transitioning the Southern California goods movement and logistics corridor to zero emission (ZE) technologies. The Project includes four measures, which are:
- Heavy Duty Charging Infrastructure Deployment Incentive Program: Incentives will be provided to install electrical charging equipment for heavy-duty trucks. Anticipated program design will provide higher incentives for items not limited to public charging locations, use of renewable energy, installations conducted by apprenticeship programs, use of labor agreements, and public accessibility.
- Battery Electric Freight Vehicle Deployment Incentive Program: Incentives will be provided for the purchase of Class 8 battery electric trucks. This measure will also provide funding to support the deployment of Class 4 and 5 battery electric vehicles in SCAG’s Last Mile Freight Program.
- Battery Electric Cargo Handling Equipment (CHE) Deployment Incentive Program: Incentives will be provided for the deployment of battery electric yard tractors and top handlers. Funding for chargers is also included in the incentive and other types of CHE equipment may be considered.
- Battery Electric Locomotive Pilot Program: Funding will be provided for the development and operation of battery electric switcher locomotives. The program also provides funding to railroad operators for the installation of chargers needed to operate these battery electric locomotives.
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) will be working on the project to assist with data tracking which, in part, includes calculating emission reductions, tracking project deployments, and developing best practices for scaling zero emission projects across the United States. In addition, the Project’s collaboration with International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers-National Electrical Contractors Association, academia, and non-government organizations enhances the potential for significant job creation and the workforce development necessary to implement, maintain, and sustain the ZE transformation of the freight sector. Additionally, the Project includes a framework for a Community Benefits program, which aims to uplift equity and community priorities and projects, while engaging in education and outreach on climate, air pollution, and ZE technologies.
Additional information:
Need More Information?
Please email INVESTCLEAN-CPRG@aqmd.gov. You may also sign-up for updates, here by selecting INVEST CLEAN (CPRG) in the Incentive Category.