New Hampshire Clean Diesel Program Rolling Request for Proposals

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) is soliciting proposals through a Rolling Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Clean Diesel Program, funded by the United States Environmental Protection Agency's Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) Program. The procurement seeks proposals from public entities to reduce diesel emissions through certified vehicle/equipment replacements, certified engine replacements, and verified idle reduction technologies. Eligible project types include non-road equipment replacement with EPA-certified diesel engines and zero-tailpipe emission replacements, with funding percentages ranging from 25% to 60% depending on the specific project. Proposals will be evaluated based on multiple criteria, including proposal clarity, cost-effectiveness of emissions reductions (measuring NOx, PM2.5, and CO2), and additional environmental benefits. The program will offer bonus points for alternative fuel technologies and projects benefiting priority communities with high poverty rates. Applications are due by midnight on the 20th of each month, with notification of selection within five business days, and all projects must be completed by September 30, 2026. Proposals will be scored competitively to determine funding allocation.

The procurement is restricted to public entities, specifically state and local government agencies, municipalities, public schools and districts, public colleges and universities, and public transit agencies. The program has approximately $315,000 available for project awards, structured as a partial reimbursement program that requires non-federal matching funds. For non-road equipment replacements, participants must provide a 75% mandatory cost-share, while zero-tailpipe emission replacements have more favorable funding terms. The primary objective is to reduce harmful diesel emissions and improve air quality by replacing older, high-emission diesel vehicles and equipment with cleaner alternatives. No incumbent vendors are mentioned in the documentation, and the program appears to be open to new applicants who can demonstrate meaningful emissions reduction potential. Funding will be allocated through a competitive selection process that prioritizes projects with the most significant environmental impact and benefits to priority communities.