Minnesota’s state plan for the Volkswagen settlement is structured in three phases. the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) developed the plan for Phase 1 (2018-2019) with input from Minnesotans across the state. Comments and input had a direct impact on how they planned their grant programs. Now, they’re asking for help to create the plan for Phase 2 (2020-2023).
This is an opportunity to demonstrate support for the draft plan for Phase 2. Read and review the draft plan for Phase 2 (2020-2023). MPCA is accepting comments until Dec. 20, 2019. Help build a public record in support of clean air and water by attending this upcoming meeting in Saint Paul.
Monday, December 9, 2019
2:00 – 4:00 PM
MPCA Saint Paul office
520 Lafayette Road, Saint Paul, MN 55155
Also via WebEx (more information here)
You can also submit comments about this plan by email through December 20, 2019 to vwsettlement.pca@state.mn.us.
Background: Over the next four years, the MPCA will invest $23.5 million in projects that will reduce harmful air pollution and move Minnesota towards a cleaner transportation future.
In Phase 2, MPCA has earmarked 65% of funds to support the electrification of Minnesota’s transportation sector. MPCA grant programs will fund eligible electric vehicles (EVs) and invest the maximum allowed on EV charging stations under the terms of the settlement, including:
- $7 million for heavy-duty EVs
- $4.7 million for electric school buses
- $3.5 million for EV charging stations
MPCA will spend 90% of the EV charging station funds on an estimated 43 new direct current fast-charging stations along highway corridors in Greater Minnesota, which will expand the statewide EV charging network by more than 2400 miles.
Approximately $8.23 million (35% of Phase 2 funds) will fund cleaner heavy-duty on-road vehicles, heavy-duty off-road equipment, and school buses. These grant programs will continue our commitment to achieve substantial emissions reductions by replacing older, more polluting diesel-powered vehicles and equipment with newer, cleaner technology that uses a variety of fuel types
Learn more:
- Additional background information on the Volkswagen settlement from MPCA.