The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) has been allocated DERA funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the combined amount of $732,838 for federal fiscal years 2025-2026. DERA has provided an opportunity to help reduce harmful diesel emissions. The federal funding for the State Clean Diesel Grant Program supports projects that provide cost-effective diesel emission reduction strategies. Funding is intended for county, city, or other local government entities; private organizations; businesses; and universities. Grants are awarded to eligible applicants for implementation of diesel emission reduction projects across the state to achieve public health and air quality goals. The state will prioritize projects that meet all eligibility criteria, submit all required documentation, and focus on the DERA programmatic priorities outlined in the 2025-2026 State Guide. The tabs at the top of the page contain additional information on how to apply for the State DERA Program, past State DERA awardees, and impacts of diesel emissions. Email questions and inquiries to DERA@des.sc.gov, and DERA staff will reach out to you! 

Stay up to date on the status of diesel emission reduction grants and information by visiting the STRIDE Collaborative's website. Here, you can learn more about grants, completed projects, and clean diesel strategies. The Southeastern Team Reducing the Impacts of Diesel Emissions (STRIDE) is a partnership between leaders from federal, state and local government; the private sector; and other stakeholders in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Together, we can continue to improve air quality and public health throughout the Southeastern U.S. Sign up and join now!