Oregon DEQ opens application period for new zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty truck rebates

Calling all diesel medium- and heavy-duty individual and fleet owners! Today, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality opened the application process for the new Zero-Emission Rebates for Oregon Fleets Program, also known as the ZERO Fleet Rebate Program. It provides money back to Oregon businesses, non-profits and government agencies that purchase or lease new all-electric medium- and heavy-duty vehicles.

"This new program is another fantastic opportunity for truck owners to transition to zero-emissions vehicles," said DEQ's Air Quality Division Administrator Ali Mirzakhalili. "Oregon DEQ continues to fight for cleaner air and improved public health for those living across the state. Offering the ZERO Fleet Rebates, along with various other grants and incentives, provides assistance with purchasing or leasing new, clean medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, while also decreasing harmful emissions experienced especially by fleet employees and everyone living along high-traffic corridors."

Eligible vehicles must have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating in classes ranging from 2b through 8. Rebate amounts range from $2,500 to $120,000, depending on vehicle weight class.

To participate, purchasers and lessees must first apply for access to the ZERO Fleet Rebate Online Portal, which establishes eligibility. Applicants must receive approval and apply for a rebate before purchasing or leasing a vehicle. Before beginning the process, DEQ recommends applicants read all the details available on the Zero-Emission Rebates for Oregon Fleets Program web page.

In 2023, the Oregon Legislature passed House Bill 3409, authorizing the Oregon Environmental Quality Commission to adopt rules to create a new rebate program for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. It also provided $3 million in seed funding with hopes of attracting additional grant funding. The Commission adopted program rules in September 2024, which include elements to improve air quality in communities especially burdened by diesel pollution.

An additional $14 million was awarded through the Climate Equity and Resilience Through Action, or CERTA, grant, which significantly expanded the program's capacity. A total of $17 million is now available to help Oregon's truck owners and fleet operators transition to zero-emission vehicles. This funding will help reduce emissions statewide, while lowering operating costs for participating fleets.

Oregon DEQ will hold informational webinars for potential applicants and dealerships in early 2026. Be sure to register for email updates on these virtual meetings and other program details.

For technical questions, please email [email protected].