MPCA is offering approximately $150,000 in grant funding to replace 2-cycle gasoline-powered landscaping and snow removal equipment with electric-powered equipment.

Gasoline-powered landscaping equipment is a significant source of air emissions in urban areas, impacting the health of equipment operators and the populated communities they serve.

The maximum award is $24,000 with a 50% required match.

Eligible applicants:

• Businesses under 500 employees
• Governmental agencies or tribal nations
• Educational institutions
• Non-governmental organizations (e.g., nonprofits, trade groups, industry associations) 

Equipment used near populations sensitive to air pollution, in environmental justice areas, and in communities with higher air pollution will tend to score highest. All equipment being replaced must be scrapped or made inoperable.

Apply now! Deadline: Nov 8, 2019.

More than $173,000 in grants has already helped 66 businesses and organizations switch to electric-powered equipment, such as chainsaws, pole pruners, lawn mowers, string or hedge trimmers, and handheld or backpack blowers. These purchases will reduce annual air emissions by 185 tons of VOCs, 0.6 tons of nitrogen oxide, and 6.5 tons of fine particulates.

Review grant materials, application, and Q&A on the MPCA alternative landscaping grants webpage. Grants can be combined with MPCA low-interest small business loans up to $75,000 for capital equipment purchases.