State Sen. John Yudichak (D-Luzerne/Carbon) reminded local businesses that the Alternative Fuel Incentive Grant (AFIG) program began accepting applications on March 1.

"Becoming more energy efficient is not only great from an environmental standpoint, but it's a great way for local schools and businesses to cut costs," Yudichak said. "This grant program also presents a great opportunity for local governments to pool resources and submit a stronger, regional application."Yudichak said roughly $8 million will be awarded through the grant program for the conversion or purchase of natural gas vehicles weighing 26,000 pounds or less, as well as the conversion or purchase of electric, propane or other alternative fuel vehicles of any size.Applicants interested in purchasing or converting only one or two alternative fuel vehicles are encouraged to partner with other eligible applicants to aggregate vehicles into a single application, which will satisfy the grant's five vehicle minimum.Grant applications will also be accepted for innovation technology projects that include research, training, development and demonstration of new applications or next phase technology related to alternative transportation fuels and alternative fuel vehicles.School districts, municipal authorities, political subdivisions, incorporated nonprofit entities, corporations and limited liability companies or partnerships registered to do business in Pennsylvania are eligible to apply.Potential applicants are encouraged to participate in a related webinar, scheduled for Tuesday, March 11 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. To register for the webinar, complete the online grant application or learn more about the AFIG grant program, visit

ww.dep.state.pa.us keyword: AFIG. Grant applications are due by May 30 by 4 p.m.