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For Immediate Release
 April 30, 2010

DIRECTOR PATT-MCDANIEL ANNOUNCES THE AVAILABILITY OF
GRANTS FOR ALTERNATIVE FUEL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS

COLUMBUS – Ohio Department of Development Director Lisa Patt-McDaniel today announced that the Department is soliciting applications for the Alternative Fuel Transportation Grant Program for the purchase and installation of blended biodiesel, blended gasoline refueling, and fuel blending stations. The goal of the program is to increase the availability and use of alternative fuels for motor vehicles and to establish these blending facilities in Ohio.

"Advancement in alternative fuel transportation is vital to strengthening our state's ability to attract new businesses," Patt-McDaniel said. "Ohio is a leader in innovation because of new projects such as blending fuel facilities, which help to stimulate Ohio's economy and provide job creation opportunities."

In accordance with Section 122.075 of the Ohio Revised Code, this program is available for the following project applications, which must be installed in Ohio with new equipment and machinery:

  • Conversion of existing retail facilities to blended biodiesel or blended gasoline retail facilities;
  • New installation of blended biodiesel or blended gasoline retail facilities; or
  • New installation of blended biodiesel or blended gasoline fuel blending facilities.

The grant award will cover 80 percent of the total eligible project costs or a maximum grant award of $10,000 for conversion retail facilities, $40,000 for installation of new retail facilities, or $200,000 for installation of new blending facilities, whichever is less. Eligible applicants may also request a maximum of $5,000 for educational and promotional materials and activities to increase the acceptance and use of alternative fuel in Ohio. All projects must be in operation for at least three years, include a minimum match of 20 percent, and be completed within 12 months of the grant award.

Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, but will be prioritized if they include the following preferred criteria: proximity to an interstate or other heavily traveled route, number of years in operation, evidence of local demand and financial match, publicly accessible facility, and installation of both blended biodiesel and blended gasoline.

For applications and more information about the Alternative Fuel Transportation Grant Program, please visit: http://www.development.ohio.gov/Energy/Incentives/GrantsLoans.htm.

Working with our partners across business, state and local governments, academia, and the nonprofit sector, the Ohio Department of Development works to attract, create, grow, and retain businesses through competitive incentives and targeted investments. Engaged every day in marketing, deal-making, innovating, investing, and collaborating, the Ohio Department of Development works at the speed of business to accelerate and support the teamwork that is absolutely necessary for success by providing financial, informational, and technical assistance to those making an investment in Ohio's future.

The Ohio Energy Resources Division works to grow the economy of the state by connecting companies and communities to financial and technical resources in order to deploy renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency.

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