Transition Program for Equipment Manufacturers (TPEM)
- Overview
- Who can participate
- Regulatory requirements
- Application and reporting steps for equipment manufacturers and importers
- Recordkeeping and reporting steps for engine manufacturers
- Additional tips and tools
- TPEM help desk
Overview
The Transition Program for Equipment Manufacturers, better known as “TPEM” or “flexibility program,” is a temporary exemption that allows diesel equipment manufacturers to delay installing Tier 4-compliant engines in their products for up to seven years.
TPEM was created in response to equipment manufacturers’ concerns that engine manufacturers would not provide sufficient notice of possible changes in engine design stemming from tighter standards. Therefore, they would not be able to make the necessary adjustments to their equipment to accommodate these design changes within the timeframe provided by the regulations.
Many TPEM participants are small businesses.
Participants must comply with certain production limitations and paperwork requirements.
Who can participate
- Have primary responsibility for designing and manufacturing their own equipment, AND
- Install the engine(s).
Companies that import TPEM equipment into the U.S. but do not manufacture equipment do not qualify to participate in TPEM on their own. They can only participate as an importer by bringing equipment into the US that is exempted under an equipment manufacturer’s valid exemption.
Regulatory Requirements for TPEM
Application and Reporting Steps for Equipment Manufacturers and Importers
- Notification template to apply for TPEM
- Importers must submit additional information. Refer to the regulations for more information.
STEP 4: When ordering engines, provide the engine manufacturer with written assurance that the engines will be used under TPEM.
- Bond form for importers
Use this form to calculate the size of the bond or apply for a waiver. - Bonding requirements
Recordkeeping and Reporting Steps for Engine Manufacturers
Additional Tools and Tips
TPEM Help Desk
- Email: TPEM-CI@epa.gov
- Phone: 734-214-4100