A limited number of rebates for the installation of idle reduction equipment are available through the Shorepower Truck Electrification Project (STEP) program. The rebates are for approved diesel-powered APUs, battery-powered HVAC systems and evaporative cooler systems with electric standby or shore power capability.
“We first offered idle reduction equipment rebates last year and due to popular demand could not fund all of the requested rebates,” said David Orton, communications manager for Cascade Sierra Solutions, which is administering the program. “This year, additional funds for a new round of rebates became available after rebates approved last year were not redeemed.”
Orton estimates that CSS has enough funds to pay about 400 to 500 more rebates. STEP is also providing more than 1,000 plug-in connection kits that bring electrical power from a weather-proof power connection on the outside of the tractor to a GFCI protected outlet in the sleeper compartment.
The kits are provided on a first-come, first-served basis at no charge when recipients provide a brief owner/vehicle profile for grant records. The recipient is responsible for installation costs. Two kit types are available with the STEP project. A one-page flyer describing the kits can be downloaded from here.
“Those using APUs or battery systems with shore power capability have the best of both worlds - self contained power when they need it, and plug in power to the grid when it’s available at truck stops, terminals, and rest areas,” Orton said.
The rebates are for 20% of the installed equipment cost, up to a maximum of $1,600 per unit for APUs and battery-powered HVAC systems, according to Orton. The maximum rebate for evaporative cooler systems is $700.
“There’s no limit to the number of rebates for which a fleet can apply,” Orton said. “However, Cascade Sierra Solutions will give priority to rebate requests that more closely match the rebate program’s goal of maximizing the use of plug-in stations. The highest priority will go to rebate requests where installation and the application process can be completed in the next 60 days.”
A list of approved equipment is available here. Applications forms can be downloaded from Cascade Sierra Solutions’ web site.
All rebates must receive pre-approval by Cascade Sierra Solutions prior to installation. The installed equipment must offer an electric power grid connection and vehicle owners must commit to using plug-in power when available. The rebates are funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to accelerate the use of truck stop electrification. Cascade Sierra Solutions has partnered with Shorepower Technologies (SPT) to administer the project for the U. S. Department of Energy. CSS oversees the project and administers the rebate program for vehicle owners. Shorepower Technologies develops the truck stop electrification infrastructure and operates the system.
