Agriculture Voucher Incentive: A Guide to Reducing Costs on Zero-Emission Equipment
If you’re a farmer or business owner in the agriculture industry looking to upgrade your equipment, the Agriculture Voucher Incentive offers an excellent opportunity to offset a significant portion of the costs for purchasing new, zero-emission vehicles. This initiative is designed to help replace older, less environmentally friendly equipment with modern, eco-conscious alternatives that reduce emissions and improve the sustainability of your operation.
What Is the Agriculture Voucher Incentive?
The Agriculture Voucher Incentive offers up to 75% of the eligible cost of purchasing new equipment, with a maximum eligible funding amount of $13,500. This voucher program is aimed at helping you transition to zero-emission vehicles and equipment, which significantly reduces your carbon footprint and complies with environmental regulations.
Eligible Costs
The costs that can be covered under this program include:
- Base vehicle (such as an ATV, UTV, or tractor)
- Roof, windshield, or doors (depending on the vehicle type)
- Extended warranty for the new equipment
However, certain costs are not eligible for funding, such as:
- Additional batteries for the equipment
Equipment Eligibility
To qualify for the voucher incentive, the equipment being replaced (the old equipment) and the equipment being purchased (the new equipment) must meet specific criteria:
Old Equipment:
- Must be a self-propelled all-terrain vehicle (ATV), utility terrain vehicle (UTV), or a tractor with less than 25 horsepower
- Must be powered by either a compression-ignition engine (diesel) or a spark-ignition engine (gasoline)
- The engine must be at least five years old at the time of the application submission
New Equipment:
- Must be zero-emission, meaning it emits zero tailpipe emissions from its onboard power source (such as all-electric or hydrogen fuel cell vehicles). It cannot undergo modifications that would allow it to be powered by any other means.
- Must have a minimum towing capacity of 500 lbs and a total vehicle weight of 700 lbs or more.
- Must operate 100% within the boundaries of the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD). You can check the SJVAPCD boundaries map in the program guidelines.
- Must come with a minimum 1-year manufacturer warranty.
Application Process: How to Get Started
The process for applying for the Agriculture Voucher Incentive is straightforward. Follow these steps to access your funding:
- Submit Your Application:
- Complete and submit your application packet to the District staff via mail, email, or fax. Make sure all the required documents are included.
- Voucher Issuance:
- Once your application is reviewed and approved, the District staff will issue a Voucher to you.
- Purchase New Equipment:
- After receiving your voucher, purchase the new zero-emission equipment and pay the full price.
- Dismantle Old Equipment:
- Once you’ve purchased the new equipment, take your old equipment to a District certified dismantler for proper disposal.
- Submit Reimbursement Packet:
- After disposing of the old equipment, submit the necessary reimbursement packet to the District.
- Receive Reimbursement:
- Typically, reimbursement is processed within 60 working days.
Why Participate?
- Financial Savings: The voucher can cover up to 75% of your equipment costs, significantly reducing the financial burden of transitioning to zero-emission vehicles.
- Environmental Impact: By switching to zero-emission equipment, you’re actively reducing harmful tailpipe emissions, helping to improve air quality in your region.
- Regulatory Compliance: Staying ahead of emission regulations is essential for long-term success in the agriculture industry, and this program helps you make that transition without overwhelming costs.
Final Thoughts
The Agriculture Voucher Incentive provides a valuable opportunity for businesses in the agricultural sector to modernize their equipment fleet while promoting sustainability. By taking advantage of this program, you not only save money but also contribute to a cleaner, greener environment. Ensure that your old equipment meets the eligibility requirements and begin the application process today to start reaping the benefits of zero-emission technology.
For more information and to apply, go to grants on our website and click ag voucher program.
