Energy Technology Grant Awarded to Cummins Inc.-First Mode to Advance Hybrid Haul Truck Technology and Drive Decarbonization in Mining
Centralia, (September 29, 2025) The Centralia Coal Transition Grants Energy Technology Board is pleased to announce it has approved a grant to Cummins Inc.-First Mode in the amount of $2,096,567.00 to support the continued development and testing of hybrid haul truck systems at the Proving Grounds-Centralia in Washington State. “This investment not only supports environmental goals but also strengthens the local economy,” said Mickey Dreher, Centralia Coal Transition board member. “Cummins’ commitment to community engagement and workforce development in Centralia aligns perfectly with our vision for a sustainable future.”
Read the full release here: https://www.cummins.com/news/releases/2025/09/29/cummins-secures-21-million-centralia-coal-transition-grants-energy.
About Cummins:
Cummins Inc., a global solutions leader, comprises five business segments – Engine, Components, Distribution, Power Systems and Accelera by Cummins – supported by its global manufacturing and extensive service and support network, skilled workforce and vast technological expertise. Cummins is committed to its Destination Zero strategy, which is grounded in the company’s commitment to sustainability and helping its customers successfully navigate the energy transition with its broad portfolio of products.
About the Coal Transition Board:
The Energy Technology Board was formed as a result of the 2011 Agreement between TransAlta and the state of Washington. This agreement allowed for the Centralia plant to move away from coal-fired operations with one unit retiring in December 2020 and the second unit in December 2025. TransAlta is investing $55 million in Lewis and South Thurston counties and the state of Washington through the Coal Transition Boards.
Energy Technology Board ($25M): established to fund energy technologies with the potential to create environmental benefits to the state of Washington.
Weatherization Board ($10M): established to fund energy efficiency and weatherization for the residents, employees, business, non-profit organizations and local governments within Lewis County and South Thurston County; up to $1 million shall be allocated to fund residential energy efficiency and weatherization measures for low-income and moderate-income residents of Lewis County and South Thurston County.
Economic & Community Development Board ($20M): established to fund education, retraining, economic development, and community enhancement; at least $5M shall be allocated to fund education, retraining and economic development specifically targeting the needs of workers displaced from the Centralia facility.