As the economy continues to slowly rebound, trucking companies keep looking for ways to operate efficiently while spending as little money as possible. From driving hybrid tractor-trailers to fueling a truck with pond scum, potential cost-saving techniques seem to hit the industry as frequently as bugs hit a windshield.

And, the State of Wisconsin recently announced they are once again seeking applicants for a grant program aimed at helping Wisconsin-based trucking companies cut their operating costs. Under the Diesel Truck Idling Reduction Grant Program, carriers can apply for a grant that will reimburse them up to 50 percent of the cost to operate and install idle reduction equipment in heavy-duty diesel truck-tractors. Idling technology solutions help truckers lower their expenses by reducing the idling time for long-haul trucks, which in turn reduces diesel consumption and emissions.

Wisconsin’s Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) is responsible for overseeing the grant application process and plans to award up to $1 million in funding to selected participants. Trucking companies included in the program will receive financial help for idling technology, such as:
•    Auxiliary power units
•    Battery-powered units
•    Diesel-fired heaters
•    Energy recovery systems (also known as thermal storage systems)

If you are a Wisconsin-based trucking company interested in the program, they are currently accepting applications for their next funding cycle, which runs from July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012. Download a Diesel Truck Idling Reduction Grant Program application and apply by August 26, 2011.

Have you benefited from the program before? If so, we’re curious to know your thoughts.

Were you reimbursed in a timely manner?
Did you experience any other helpful benefits underneath the program?
How has idling technology helped you reduce costs?