SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board (ARB) is looking for promising new technologies that support its efforts to reduce air pollution.  Through the ARB's Innovative Clean Air Technologies (ICAT) program, approximately $1 million is available next fiscal year to help businesses bring their clean air technologies to commercialization.

        "Several clean air technologies are now on the verge of being commercialized as a result of ICAT funding.  These businesses will be growing, creating new jobs and offering cleaner air for Californians," said Dr. Alan C. Lloyd, ARB Chairman.

        Since the ICAT program began in 1994, $3.4 million dollars has been approved to help fund 14 projects.  Approximately three-fourths of all ICAT funding comes from applicants, bringing total program cost to $13 million.   Any type of clean air pollution control technology is eligible for ICAT funding.  Specifically, the ARB looks for new technologies that reduce emissions or offer increased efficiency or cost-effectiveness.

       Past ICAT funded projects include a high-efficiency catalytic converter, an ultra- low-NOx (nitrogen oxide) gas fired burner, zero-VOC (volatile organic compound) metal coatings, a hybrid-electric heavy-duty truck, and a cleaner-running two-stroke utility engine.

       The application packet will be mailed out to interested businesses in mid- February, with a filing deadline of late March, 2000.  More specific information, including final filing deadlines and requirements, can be viewed on the ARB Web site as they become available, at: www.arb.ca.gov/research/icat/icat.htm or by calling the ARB's Public Information Office at (916) 322-2990.