Montgomery County received a $150,000 state grant toward its Food Truck Electrification Pilot program, which it called “the first program of its kind in the region.”
The money from the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) is designed to reduce carbon emissions by switching diesel-powered food truck generators with electric power systems.
The county will offer funds to food truck operators to offset the cost of purchasing the electric generator systems, which the county said cost between $10,000 and $25,000. The new grant is expected to assist 25 food truck operators in the county, where there are 185 licensed food businesses.
“Receiving this $150,000 grant from the Maryland Energy Administration is a major step forward for Montgomery County’s sustainability efforts,” said County Executive Marc Elrich in a news release.
“By transitioning food trucks from diesel to electric power, we are not only cutting down on harmful pollutants but also supporting our local small businesses. This initiative will have a lasting positive impact on our community, setting a strong example for other counties to follow.”
Electric generator systems are projected to earn back their cost within two years through fuel savings, according to a news release from the county.
In collaboration with the Montgomery County Green Bank, the Food Truck Generator Electrification Pilot will offer a cash rebate plus zero percent interest loans for the cost of equipment and installation, enabling operators to switch to electric generators and avoid upfront costs.
According to the county, a typical fossil fuel powered food truck generator produces more than four times as much carbon dioxide (CO2) each year as a passenger vehicle. This pilot program is estimated to cut carbon pollution by 515 tons annually over the lifetime of the battery generators.
The Department of Environmental Protection will manage the pilot with the county’s Department of Health and Human Services, which regulates food truck operators. Bethesda Green and Poolesville Green are expected to assist in outreach efforts.
🚚⚡ Big things are cooking in MoCo! Thanks to a $150K grant from @MD_Energy, we’re launching MD’s FIRST electric generator program for food trucks! Get ready for quieter, cleaner & greener eats on the streets—improving air quality & cutting emissions!https://t.co/liZhOAENR4 pic.twitter.com/52FGZbLAdv
— Montgomery County MD (@MontgomeryCoMD) October 17, 2024
