Montgomery County has received a $150,000 grant from the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) for its Food Truck Electrification Pilot program, the first program of its kind in the region. The Food Truck Electrification Pilot program aims to replace diesel-powered food truck generators with electric power systems, significantly reducing carbon emissions and improving public health. 

The MEA grant award will enable the Food Truck Generator Electrification Pilot to provide direct subsidies to food truck operators to offset the cost of electric generator systems that range in cost from $10,000 to $25,000. 

Food truck operators may submit a form to express interest and receive more information about converting food truck generators to electric. Montgomery County’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will communicate more details and begin accepting applications later this year. 

“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. “The Food Truck Electrification Pilot program is the first of its kind in our region, and it underscores our commitment to reducing carbon emissions and improving public health. 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.” 

The electric generator systems are projected to earn back their cost within two years through fuel savings. In collaboration with the Montgomery County Green Bank, the Food Truck Generator Electrification Pilot will offer a cash rebate plus 0 percent interest loans for the cost of equipment and installation, enabling operators to switch to electric generators and avoid upfront costs.

Data show that a typical fossil fuel powered food truck generator produces more than four times as much carbon dioxide (CO2) each year as a passenger vehicle. The MEA grant will enable the County to provide funding assistance to up to 25 food trucks out of a total of 185 licensed food businesses in the County.

“The Food Truck Electrification Pilot represents another milestone in our county’s commitment to sustainability,” said DEP Director Jon Monger. “By transitioning food trucks from diesel to electric generators, we are reducing our carbon footprint while fostering small businesses and healthy communities. This program exemplifies Montgomery County’s dedication to innovative solutions that benefit business, the environment and public health.” 

This pilot program is expected to cut carbon pollution by 515 tons annually over the lifetime of the battery generators and jump start demand from more food truck businesses in the future. 

“Our OPEN Energy initiative exists to propel innovative efforts like Montgomery County’s Food Truck Pilot that are visionary, practical, and, above all, effective at reducing harmful emissions,” said Maryland Energy Administration Director Paul G. Pinsky. “We very much appreciate the amount of forethought and planning that Montgomery County put into this new effort and look forward to strengthening our partnerships in the future.”

DEP will manage the pilot in coordination with the County’s Department of Health and Human Services, which regulates food truck operators. Community partners like Bethesda Green and Poolesville Green will assist in outreach efforts to ensure widespread participation and awareness.  

The Food Truck Generator Electrification Pilot program aligns with MEA’s mission to promote clean, affordable, reliable energy and energy-related greenhouse gas emission reductions. 

“This partnership with the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection underscores our commitment to advancing sustainable business practices while building a prospering, sustainable and healthy Montgomery County,” said Steve Morel, CEO of the Montgomery County Green Bank. “We are excited to see the positive impact the Food Truck Generator Electrification Pilot will have on our local economy and environment.” 

By showcasing the benefits of electric power for food trucks, Montgomery County aims to inspire broader adoption of green technologies and set a precedent for future sustainability initiatives in the county and beyond. For more information visit Maryland Energy Administration’s Open Energy Grant Program. 

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