Biden-Harris Administration announces nearly $1B in awards for clean school buses across the nation as part of Investing in America Agenda
WASHINGTON – As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting children and improving air quality, today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the selection of 67 applicants to receive nearly $1 billion through EPA’s first Clean School Bus Program Grants Competition. The awards, which are made possible through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will help selectees purchase over 2,700 clean school buses in 280 school districts serving over 7 million students across 37 states. By accelerating the transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles, these awards will improve air quality for children and their families and advance environmental justice, all while boosting the economy and creating good-paying jobs.
With today’s announcement, EPA’s Clean School Bus Program has awarded nearly $2 billion and funded approximately 5,000 electric and low-emission school buses nationwide.
“Every school day, 25 million children ride our nation’s largest form of mass transit: the school bus. The vast majority of those buses run on diesel, exposing students, teachers, and bus drivers to toxic air pollution,” said Vice President Kamala Harris. “Today, we are announcing nearly $1 billion to fund clean school buses across the nation. As part of our work to tackle the climate crisis, the historic funding we are announcing today is an investment in our children, their health, and their education. It also strengthens our economy by investing in American manufacturing and America’s workforce.”
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, as the wheels of the new, electric school buses go round and round, carbon emissions and pollution are going to keep going down and down,” said Senator Chuck Schumer (NY). “I led the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to passage so communities across the country will have the federal funding needed to combat climate change, and now, for the second year in a row, this major investment sets the wheels in motion to put new electric school buses on the road, curbing carbon emissions, decreasing pollution, and improving the air quality for students and communities across America. I am proud to deliver this tremendous environmental justice investment that will carry our students to a brighter future, emissions free.”
“The Biden Administration continues to honor their commitment to the health and wellbeing of our children by investing in the transformation of our national school bus fleets with zero-emission and low-emission models,” said Congressman Tony Cárdenas (CA-29). “With nearly $1 billion in investment already made, school districts in rural and urban America have eagerly taken advantage of this program. Through this latest round of investment, even more school districts will be able to provide cleaner air for students, school staff, and for the communities they serve.”
“Since I came to Congress in 2019, I have advocated for clean school bus funding and tirelessly fought for inclusion in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Educators know how damaging diesel exhaust can be for students and our communities. The nearly $1 billion investment, announced by the Biden-Harris Administration today, will save Connecticut school districts money, create good-paying clean energy jobs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protecting people and the planet. It is great to see how these efforts will impact over seven million students across the nation. This is a huge win for our state and our country.” said Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05).
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and large number of high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, EPA has nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded this round to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, advance environmental justice, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top tier applicants to receive this historic investment in their community. Funds are slated to support the purchase of approximately 2,700 buses, 95% of which will be electric. EPA will distribute awards to selectees in 37 states. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities make up approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus Program, created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses, and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replace existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was created under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds clean school buses, including electric buses, compressed natural gas, and propane buses that produce zero tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors, with a requirement that at least half of the funding go toward zero-emitting school buses.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines, which disproportionately impact communities of color and Tribal communities, is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Replacing these older diesel engines with zero- or low-emission buses will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets, by replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the full list of Clean School Bus Grantees.
With today’s announcement, EPA’s Clean School Bus Program has awarded nearly $2 billion and funded approximately 5,000 electric and low-emission school buses nationwide.
“Every school day, 25 million children ride our nation’s largest form of mass transit: the school bus. The vast majority of those buses run on diesel, exposing students, teachers, and bus drivers to toxic air pollution,” said Vice President Kamala Harris. “Today, we are announcing nearly $1 billion to fund clean school buses across the nation. As part of our work to tackle the climate crisis, the historic funding we are announcing today is an investment in our children, their health, and their education. It also strengthens our economy by investing in American manufacturing and America’s workforce.”
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, as the wheels of the new, electric school buses go round and round, carbon emissions and pollution are going to keep going down and down,” said Senator Chuck Schumer (NY). “I led the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to passage so communities across the country will have the federal funding needed to combat climate change, and now, for the second year in a row, this major investment sets the wheels in motion to put new electric school buses on the road, curbing carbon emissions, decreasing pollution, and improving the air quality for students and communities across America. I am proud to deliver this tremendous environmental justice investment that will carry our students to a brighter future, emissions free.”
“The Biden Administration continues to honor their commitment to the health and wellbeing of our children by investing in the transformation of our national school bus fleets with zero-emission and low-emission models,” said Congressman Tony Cárdenas (CA-29). “With nearly $1 billion in investment already made, school districts in rural and urban America have eagerly taken advantage of this program. Through this latest round of investment, even more school districts will be able to provide cleaner air for students, school staff, and for the communities they serve.”
“Since I came to Congress in 2019, I have advocated for clean school bus funding and tirelessly fought for inclusion in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Educators know how damaging diesel exhaust can be for students and our communities. The nearly $1 billion investment, announced by the Biden-Harris Administration today, will save Connecticut school districts money, create good-paying clean energy jobs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protecting people and the planet. It is great to see how these efforts will impact over seven million students across the nation. This is a huge win for our state and our country.” said Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05).
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and large number of high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, EPA has nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded this round to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, advance environmental justice, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top tier applicants to receive this historic investment in their community. Funds are slated to support the purchase of approximately 2,700 buses, 95% of which will be electric. EPA will distribute awards to selectees in 37 states. Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities make up approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus Program, created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses, and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replace existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was created under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds clean school buses, including electric buses, compressed natural gas, and propane buses that produce zero tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors, with a requirement that at least half of the funding go toward zero-emitting school buses.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines, which disproportionately impact communities of color and Tribal communities, is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Replacing these older diesel engines with zero- or low-emission buses will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets, by replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the full list of Clean School Bus Grantees.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces at least $17.1M in Awards for Clean School Buses Across Virginia as Part of Investing in America Agenda
PHILADELPHIA (Jan. 8, 2024) – As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting children and improving air quality, today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the selection of two applicants in Virginia to receive more than $17.1 million through EPA’s first Clean School Bus Program’s Grants Competition.
The awards, which are made possible through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will help selectees purchase clean school buses in two school districts across Virginia.
By accelerating the transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles, these awards will improve air quality for children and their families and advance environmental justice, all while boosting the economy and creating good-paying jobs.
Fairfax County Public Schools has been selected to receive $16,590,000 to purchase 42 electric school buses.
Newport News Public Schools has been selected to receive $525,000 to purchase 15 propane school buses.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
"These grants are further proof of EPA's commitment to protect children, improve air quality, and contribute directly to communities," said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. "These once-in-a-generation infrastructure investments will have lasting impacts."
“Time and time again, we are seeing how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law I helped pass is making a difference in communities across Virginia,” said U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA). “I’m glad that Fairfax County and Newport News Public Schools are receiving funding for clean buses, which will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect our environment.”
“I am thrilled to see Fairfax and Newport News Public Schools receive funding to invest in electric and low-emission school buses,” said U.S. Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA). “This funding will usher in a cleaner, healthier future for our students and communities as a whole.”
“Today’s announcement is a gamechanger for Fairfax County, home to one of the largest school districts in the country,” said U.S. Rep. Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11). “The environmental benefits of these new buses are vitally important to our fight against climate change, but the good news doesn’t stop there. Students, staff, and parents who spend time on and around school buses will no longer be exposed to diesel exhaust and other toxins from diesel-powered buses. This is a great day for Northern Virginia, brought to you proudly by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed by President Biden.”
“I congratulate Newport News Public Schools on being selected for the first Clean School Bus Grants Competition from the EPA,” said U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (VA-3). “Low and zero-emissions school buses ensure that our children breathe cleaner air both during their commutes and in their neighborhoods. This will create good green jobs, combat the climate crisis and improve the health of our students and their communities.”
“We are honored and excited to be among the recipients of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Awards,” said Dr. Michelle Reid, Superintendent of Fairfax County Public Schools. “This recognition not only underscores our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship but also reflects our ongoing efforts to provide healthier, cleaner transportation for all Fairfax County Public Schools students.”
“These awards will greatly assist us in our commitment to achieve a fully zero-emission fleet, aligning with our goal of reducing our carbon footprint and ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency in student transportation,” said Karl Frisch, Chair of the Fairfax County School Board. “We thank the EPA for this opportunity and will leverage these resources to make a positive impact on our community and the environment."
“Newport News Public Schools is honored to earn a 2023 EPA Clean School Bus Program Grant Award to increase the number of propane-fueled school buses in our fleet,” said Shay Coates, Executive Director of Pupil Transportation for Newport News Public Schools. “Propane not only reduces emissions, but also saves our district thousands of dollars in fuel and maintenance costs each year.”
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top tier Virginia applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. As grants are finalized, total amounts awarded and number of buses may be adjusted. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus program created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replaces existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024.
EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was created under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds clean school buses, including electric buses, compressed natural gas (CNG) and propane buses that produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines, which disproportionately impact communities of color and Tribal communities, is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Replacing these older diesel engines with zero- or low-emission buses will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets, by replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and large number of high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations, and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded nationally today to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, advance environmental justice, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities make up approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.
For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the full list of Clean School Bus grantees here.
The awards, which are made possible through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will help selectees purchase clean school buses in two school districts across Virginia.
By accelerating the transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles, these awards will improve air quality for children and their families and advance environmental justice, all while boosting the economy and creating good-paying jobs.
Fairfax County Public Schools has been selected to receive $16,590,000 to purchase 42 electric school buses.
Newport News Public Schools has been selected to receive $525,000 to purchase 15 propane school buses.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
"These grants are further proof of EPA's commitment to protect children, improve air quality, and contribute directly to communities," said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. "These once-in-a-generation infrastructure investments will have lasting impacts."
“Time and time again, we are seeing how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law I helped pass is making a difference in communities across Virginia,” said U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA). “I’m glad that Fairfax County and Newport News Public Schools are receiving funding for clean buses, which will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect our environment.”
“I am thrilled to see Fairfax and Newport News Public Schools receive funding to invest in electric and low-emission school buses,” said U.S. Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA). “This funding will usher in a cleaner, healthier future for our students and communities as a whole.”
“Today’s announcement is a gamechanger for Fairfax County, home to one of the largest school districts in the country,” said U.S. Rep. Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11). “The environmental benefits of these new buses are vitally important to our fight against climate change, but the good news doesn’t stop there. Students, staff, and parents who spend time on and around school buses will no longer be exposed to diesel exhaust and other toxins from diesel-powered buses. This is a great day for Northern Virginia, brought to you proudly by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed by President Biden.”
“I congratulate Newport News Public Schools on being selected for the first Clean School Bus Grants Competition from the EPA,” said U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (VA-3). “Low and zero-emissions school buses ensure that our children breathe cleaner air both during their commutes and in their neighborhoods. This will create good green jobs, combat the climate crisis and improve the health of our students and their communities.”
“We are honored and excited to be among the recipients of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Awards,” said Dr. Michelle Reid, Superintendent of Fairfax County Public Schools. “This recognition not only underscores our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship but also reflects our ongoing efforts to provide healthier, cleaner transportation for all Fairfax County Public Schools students.”
“These awards will greatly assist us in our commitment to achieve a fully zero-emission fleet, aligning with our goal of reducing our carbon footprint and ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency in student transportation,” said Karl Frisch, Chair of the Fairfax County School Board. “We thank the EPA for this opportunity and will leverage these resources to make a positive impact on our community and the environment."
“Newport News Public Schools is honored to earn a 2023 EPA Clean School Bus Program Grant Award to increase the number of propane-fueled school buses in our fleet,” said Shay Coates, Executive Director of Pupil Transportation for Newport News Public Schools. “Propane not only reduces emissions, but also saves our district thousands of dollars in fuel and maintenance costs each year.”
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top tier Virginia applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. As grants are finalized, total amounts awarded and number of buses may be adjusted. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus program created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replaces existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024.
EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was created under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds clean school buses, including electric buses, compressed natural gas (CNG) and propane buses that produce lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines, which disproportionately impact communities of color and Tribal communities, is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Replacing these older diesel engines with zero- or low-emission buses will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets, by replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and large number of high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations, and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded nationally today to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, advance environmental justice, reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities make up approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.
For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the full list of Clean School Bus grantees here.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces Nearly $90 Million Across California for Clean School Buses as Part of the Investing in America Agenda
SAN FRANCISCO – As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting children and improving air quality, today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the selection of five applicants in California to receive over $88 million through EPA’s first Clean School Bus Program Grants Competition. The awards, made possible through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will help selectees purchase clean school buses in eight school districts across California. By accelerating the transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles, these awards will improve air quality for children and their families and advance environmental justice while boosting the economy and creating good-paying jobs.
Zum Services Inc. has been selected to receive $26,579,482 to purchase 80 clean school buses.
Porterville Unified School District has been selected to receive $13,856,664 to purchase 35 clean school buses.
Los Angeles Unified School District has been selected to receive $19,750,000 to purchase 50 clean school buses.
San Diego Unified School District has been selected to receive $12,431,000 to purchase 30 clean school buses.
Kern High School District has been selected to receive $15,405,000 to purchase 39 clean school buses.
In addition, California is expected to receive additional funding through third-party selectees working with multiple states.
First Student Inc. is receiving $15,775,000 to purchase 45 buses in California and Arizona.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“San Francisco has long been a model for the nation in building a cleaner, greener future,” Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi said. “Thanks to our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – passed by the Democratic Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden two years ago – this Clean School Bus grant from the Environmental Protection Agency will provide 37 pollution-free school buses to San Francisco. This new funding will not only make San Francisco cleaner for our children, but it will also help pave the way for a brighter future for our City.”
“California’s 12th district has led the way on zero-emission buses, and today’s announcement continues that trend,” stated Representative Barbara Lee. “The climate crisis is here, and we must do everything in our power to curtail its impacts. I’m pleased the EPA chose to invest in expanding Oakland and Alameda’s Unified school district’s electric bus fleet, and I look forward to continuing to work with the Biden administration to address the climate crisis with the urgency it deserves.”
“EPA’s Clean School Bus grant for First Student, Inc. is great news for our kids and our climate,” said Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán. “These new electric buses funded by the Jobs and Infrastructure Law will cut harmful diesel emissions for communities in Long Beach burdened with high rates of pollution and childhood asthma. It’s a win for public health and a win for our fight against the climate crisis.”
“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver for communities across America, including San Diego,” said Representative Scott Peters. “This $12.4 million grant is a win for our planet, our students’ health, and the San Diego Unified School District. I look forward to celebrating with students, parents, and local leaders when I am back in San Diego.”
"We commend the Administration's tireless work to advance the acceleration of student transportation into a green era,” stated Zum Founder and CEO Ritu Narayan. “Our goal is to ensure that all students have access to safe, reliable, and sustainable transportation, and this grant award will propel our electrification efforts in many of the districts we serve. We are grateful and honored to be a part of this initiative."
“Los Angeles Unified is honored to accept the U.S. EPA Clean School Bus Grant,” Los Angeles Unified Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said. “This $19.75M grant award will greatly help us move toward electrification and away from fossil fuels in transportation. This important investment will also provide cleaner air for our students and the communities we serve.”
“First Student looks forward to continuing our partnership with the EPA as we work to fulfill our commitment to convert 30,000 diesel school buses with clean, electric-powered school buses by 2035,” shared Chris Bokelman, Sr. Director of Marketing & Communications at First Student, Inc. “As the largest student transportation provider in the country and the leading operator of electric school buses, our team has the resources and expertise to not only bring students to and from school safely but also work with school districts, utilities, and municipalities to build the necessary charging and maintenance infrastructure for the future.”
"Receiving the Clean School Bus grant is a milestone for Porterville Unified School District,” expressed Dr. Brad Rohrbach, Ed.D., Porterville Unified School District’s Assistant Superintendent of Business Services. “This grant enables us to advance our 'Striving to Be 1st to 0' initiative, transitioning to a cleaner, more efficient transportation system while empowering our students and community through educational programs and hands-on involvement. We're thrilled to embark on this journey, reducing our carbon footprint and fostering a sustainable future for our students."
“This award will provide funding for our district to take the needed steps to reduce diesel tailpipe emissions and improve human health by replacing 30 diesel school buses with zero-emission school buses, benefitting not only the students being transported but also the district staff operating the buses and the local communities where the buses operate,” shared John Burciaga, Fleet Maintenance Manager for San Diego Unified School District. “Our school district appreciates the EPA for providing the funds that will make this purchase possible.”
The Clean School Bus Program has far-reaching effects on school districts and their communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive daily.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top-tier California applicants to receive this historic investment. Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template, which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. The total amounts awarded and the number of buses may be adjusted as grants are finalized. EPA is partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider knows the district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus Program, created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replace existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those who did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees must submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future funding rounds, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was adopted under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, producing zero tailpipe emissions and propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, resulting in lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Efforts to minimize the effects of these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost-saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets by replacing existing buses with new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations, and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the funding awarded this round to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, to reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities comprise approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution. For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the complete list of Clean School Bus grantees here.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and X.
Zum Services Inc. has been selected to receive $26,579,482 to purchase 80 clean school buses.
Porterville Unified School District has been selected to receive $13,856,664 to purchase 35 clean school buses.
Los Angeles Unified School District has been selected to receive $19,750,000 to purchase 50 clean school buses.
San Diego Unified School District has been selected to receive $12,431,000 to purchase 30 clean school buses.
Kern High School District has been selected to receive $15,405,000 to purchase 39 clean school buses.
In addition, California is expected to receive additional funding through third-party selectees working with multiple states.
First Student Inc. is receiving $15,775,000 to purchase 45 buses in California and Arizona.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“San Francisco has long been a model for the nation in building a cleaner, greener future,” Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi said. “Thanks to our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – passed by the Democratic Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden two years ago – this Clean School Bus grant from the Environmental Protection Agency will provide 37 pollution-free school buses to San Francisco. This new funding will not only make San Francisco cleaner for our children, but it will also help pave the way for a brighter future for our City.”
“California’s 12th district has led the way on zero-emission buses, and today’s announcement continues that trend,” stated Representative Barbara Lee. “The climate crisis is here, and we must do everything in our power to curtail its impacts. I’m pleased the EPA chose to invest in expanding Oakland and Alameda’s Unified school district’s electric bus fleet, and I look forward to continuing to work with the Biden administration to address the climate crisis with the urgency it deserves.”
“EPA’s Clean School Bus grant for First Student, Inc. is great news for our kids and our climate,” said Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán. “These new electric buses funded by the Jobs and Infrastructure Law will cut harmful diesel emissions for communities in Long Beach burdened with high rates of pollution and childhood asthma. It’s a win for public health and a win for our fight against the climate crisis.”
“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver for communities across America, including San Diego,” said Representative Scott Peters. “This $12.4 million grant is a win for our planet, our students’ health, and the San Diego Unified School District. I look forward to celebrating with students, parents, and local leaders when I am back in San Diego.”
"We commend the Administration's tireless work to advance the acceleration of student transportation into a green era,” stated Zum Founder and CEO Ritu Narayan. “Our goal is to ensure that all students have access to safe, reliable, and sustainable transportation, and this grant award will propel our electrification efforts in many of the districts we serve. We are grateful and honored to be a part of this initiative."
“Los Angeles Unified is honored to accept the U.S. EPA Clean School Bus Grant,” Los Angeles Unified Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said. “This $19.75M grant award will greatly help us move toward electrification and away from fossil fuels in transportation. This important investment will also provide cleaner air for our students and the communities we serve.”
“First Student looks forward to continuing our partnership with the EPA as we work to fulfill our commitment to convert 30,000 diesel school buses with clean, electric-powered school buses by 2035,” shared Chris Bokelman, Sr. Director of Marketing & Communications at First Student, Inc. “As the largest student transportation provider in the country and the leading operator of electric school buses, our team has the resources and expertise to not only bring students to and from school safely but also work with school districts, utilities, and municipalities to build the necessary charging and maintenance infrastructure for the future.”
"Receiving the Clean School Bus grant is a milestone for Porterville Unified School District,” expressed Dr. Brad Rohrbach, Ed.D., Porterville Unified School District’s Assistant Superintendent of Business Services. “This grant enables us to advance our 'Striving to Be 1st to 0' initiative, transitioning to a cleaner, more efficient transportation system while empowering our students and community through educational programs and hands-on involvement. We're thrilled to embark on this journey, reducing our carbon footprint and fostering a sustainable future for our students."
“This award will provide funding for our district to take the needed steps to reduce diesel tailpipe emissions and improve human health by replacing 30 diesel school buses with zero-emission school buses, benefitting not only the students being transported but also the district staff operating the buses and the local communities where the buses operate,” shared John Burciaga, Fleet Maintenance Manager for San Diego Unified School District. “Our school district appreciates the EPA for providing the funds that will make this purchase possible.”
The Clean School Bus Program has far-reaching effects on school districts and their communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive daily.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top-tier California applicants to receive this historic investment. Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template, which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. The total amounts awarded and the number of buses may be adjusted as grants are finalized. EPA is partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider knows the district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus Program, created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replace existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those who did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees must submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future funding rounds, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was adopted under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, producing zero tailpipe emissions and propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, resulting in lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Efforts to minimize the effects of these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost-saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets by replacing existing buses with new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations, and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the funding awarded this round to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, to reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities comprise approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution. For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the complete list of Clean School Bus grantees here.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and X.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces Wisconsin to Receive Clean School Bus Funding as Part of Investing in America Agenda
CHICAGO (Jan. 8, 2024) – As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting children and improving air quality, today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Wisconsin is set to receive funding through EPA’s first Clean School Bus Program Grants Competition.
First Student Inc. has been selected to receive $39,499,635 to purchase 100 buses in Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Highland CSB 1 has been selected to receive $29,365,000 to purchase 98 buses in Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Student Transportation of America Inc has been selected to receive $12,187,253 to purchase up to 32 buses in Illinois and Wisconsin.
The awards, which are made possible through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will help selectees purchase clean school buses in two school districts across Wisconsin. By accelerating the transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles, these awards will improve air quality for children and their families and advance environmental justice, all while boosting the economy and creating good-paying jobs.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“Today’s exciting announcement reflects this Administration’s ongoing commitment to the health and wellbeing of children throughout the Great Lakes states,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “Clean school buses not only provide students with safe transportation to and from school, but they also improve air quality throughout the neighborhoods they serve.”
“Here in Wisconsin, we know that building 21st-century infrastructure, investing in clean, electric transportation options and jobs, and mitigating climate change go hand-in-hand, and we’ve been working hard over the past five years to connect the dots and ensure our state, our economy, and our workforce are ready to meet the needs of the 21st century,” said Governor Tony Evers. “These investments, supported by President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will help continue our efforts, helping reduce harmful pollution and protecting our kids’ health today and ensuring a cleaner, more sustainable future for tomorrow.”
“Investing in electric or low-emission buses is a win for our environment, will lower fuel costs for communities, and help keep our neighbors healthy,” said Sen. Tammy Baldwin. “I was proud to support the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law because I knew it would make a difference for Wisconsin families — helping us tackle climate change and creating a healthier, cleaner future for our kids.”
“Clean Milwaukee Public School buses will mean lower carbon emissions, cleaner air, and healthier environments for our children to grow up and thrive. These many benefits for our communities are why I am so excited about this grant," said Rep. Gwen Moore.
“Madison’s Public School students deserve to have the best buses to get to school,” said Rep. Mark Pocan. “Thanks to the Infrastructure Law, Madison Metropolitan School Department is receiving five new electric and low-emission school buses, keeping our planet healthy and air clean for the next generation. Thank you to the Biden-Harris Administration for awarding Madison’s students with these top-of-the-line school buses.”
“We thank the EPA for these awards and for accelerating the equitable deployment of electric school buses across the U.S.,” said John Kenning, CEO and president of First Student. “First Student looks forward to continuing our partnership with the EPA as we work to fulfill our commitment to convert 30,000 diesel school buses with clean, electric-powered school buses by 2035. As the largest student transportation provider in the country and the leading operator of electric school buses, our team has the resources and expertise to not only bring students to and from school safely, but also work with school districts, utilities, and municipalities to build the necessary charging and maintenance infrastructure for the future. We appreciate the EPA’s recognition of the turn-key nature of our proposals and are excited to continue modernizing fleets and improving the environmental health of the students and communities we serve.”
“Thanks to funding from the EPA Clean School Bus Grant Program and support from a robust coalition of partners, we are proud to deploy electric school buses across metro, tribal, rural and suburban communities spanning five Midwest states,” said Joshua Williams, midwest regional manager of Highland Electric Fleets. “We look forward to demonstrating that all communities can access the benefits of electric school buses.”
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top tier Illinois applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. As grants are finalized, total amounts awarded and number of buses may be adjusted. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus Program, created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses, and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replace existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was adopted under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, producing zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, resulting in lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Efforts to minimize the effects of these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets, by replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded this round to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, to reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities make up approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.
For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the full list of Clean School Bus grantees.
First Student Inc. has been selected to receive $39,499,635 to purchase 100 buses in Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Highland CSB 1 has been selected to receive $29,365,000 to purchase 98 buses in Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Student Transportation of America Inc has been selected to receive $12,187,253 to purchase up to 32 buses in Illinois and Wisconsin.
The awards, which are made possible through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will help selectees purchase clean school buses in two school districts across Wisconsin. By accelerating the transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles, these awards will improve air quality for children and their families and advance environmental justice, all while boosting the economy and creating good-paying jobs.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“Today’s exciting announcement reflects this Administration’s ongoing commitment to the health and wellbeing of children throughout the Great Lakes states,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “Clean school buses not only provide students with safe transportation to and from school, but they also improve air quality throughout the neighborhoods they serve.”
“Here in Wisconsin, we know that building 21st-century infrastructure, investing in clean, electric transportation options and jobs, and mitigating climate change go hand-in-hand, and we’ve been working hard over the past five years to connect the dots and ensure our state, our economy, and our workforce are ready to meet the needs of the 21st century,” said Governor Tony Evers. “These investments, supported by President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will help continue our efforts, helping reduce harmful pollution and protecting our kids’ health today and ensuring a cleaner, more sustainable future for tomorrow.”
“Investing in electric or low-emission buses is a win for our environment, will lower fuel costs for communities, and help keep our neighbors healthy,” said Sen. Tammy Baldwin. “I was proud to support the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law because I knew it would make a difference for Wisconsin families — helping us tackle climate change and creating a healthier, cleaner future for our kids.”
“Clean Milwaukee Public School buses will mean lower carbon emissions, cleaner air, and healthier environments for our children to grow up and thrive. These many benefits for our communities are why I am so excited about this grant," said Rep. Gwen Moore.
“Madison’s Public School students deserve to have the best buses to get to school,” said Rep. Mark Pocan. “Thanks to the Infrastructure Law, Madison Metropolitan School Department is receiving five new electric and low-emission school buses, keeping our planet healthy and air clean for the next generation. Thank you to the Biden-Harris Administration for awarding Madison’s students with these top-of-the-line school buses.”
“We thank the EPA for these awards and for accelerating the equitable deployment of electric school buses across the U.S.,” said John Kenning, CEO and president of First Student. “First Student looks forward to continuing our partnership with the EPA as we work to fulfill our commitment to convert 30,000 diesel school buses with clean, electric-powered school buses by 2035. As the largest student transportation provider in the country and the leading operator of electric school buses, our team has the resources and expertise to not only bring students to and from school safely, but also work with school districts, utilities, and municipalities to build the necessary charging and maintenance infrastructure for the future. We appreciate the EPA’s recognition of the turn-key nature of our proposals and are excited to continue modernizing fleets and improving the environmental health of the students and communities we serve.”
“Thanks to funding from the EPA Clean School Bus Grant Program and support from a robust coalition of partners, we are proud to deploy electric school buses across metro, tribal, rural and suburban communities spanning five Midwest states,” said Joshua Williams, midwest regional manager of Highland Electric Fleets. “We look forward to demonstrating that all communities can access the benefits of electric school buses.”
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top tier Illinois applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. As grants are finalized, total amounts awarded and number of buses may be adjusted. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus Program, created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses, and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replace existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was adopted under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, producing zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, resulting in lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Efforts to minimize the effects of these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets, by replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded this round to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, to reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities make up approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.
For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the full list of Clean School Bus grantees.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces Nearly $8 Million Across Nevada for Clean School Buses as Part of the Investing in America Agenda
SAN FRANCISCO – As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting children and improving air quality, today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Nevada is set to receive funding through EPA’s first Clean School Bus Program Grants Competition. The award, made possible through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will help purchase clean school buses in several school districts across Nevada. By accelerating the transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles, this funding will improve air quality for children and their families, advance environmental justice, boost the economy, and create good-paying jobs.
Nevada Clean Energy Fund has been selected to receive $7,704,04 to purchase 25 school buses.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride, and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“I’m thrilled to see these federal dollars for clean buses that I fought for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law coming to Nevada to help our schools lower their energy costs and keep kids safe and healthy,” said Senator Catherine Cortez Masto. “Nevada’s clean energy boom is creating jobs and helping students and families across the state, and I’ll continue working together to ensure Nevadans have the resources they need to succeed.”
“Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which I helped write and pass, Nevada’s schools will receive nearly $8 million for electric school buses that will benefit students across our state,” said Senator Jacky Rosen. “This critical funding will help modernize our schools’ transportation system, leading to lower energy costs and cleaner air for our students and their families.”
The Clean School Bus Program has far-reaching effects on school districts and their communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive daily.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top-tier Nevada applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template, which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. The total amounts awarded and the number of buses may be adjusted as grants are finalized. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus Program, created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replace existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those who did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees must submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future funding rounds, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was adopted under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, producing zero tailpipe emissions and propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, resulting in lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Efforts to minimize the effects of these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost-saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets by replacing existing buses with new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed school resources.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations, and territories, EPA has nearly doubled this round's funding to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, to reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities comprise approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution. For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the complete list of Clean School Bus grantees here.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and X.
Nevada Clean Energy Fund has been selected to receive $7,704,04 to purchase 25 school buses.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride, and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“I’m thrilled to see these federal dollars for clean buses that I fought for in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law coming to Nevada to help our schools lower their energy costs and keep kids safe and healthy,” said Senator Catherine Cortez Masto. “Nevada’s clean energy boom is creating jobs and helping students and families across the state, and I’ll continue working together to ensure Nevadans have the resources they need to succeed.”
“Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which I helped write and pass, Nevada’s schools will receive nearly $8 million for electric school buses that will benefit students across our state,” said Senator Jacky Rosen. “This critical funding will help modernize our schools’ transportation system, leading to lower energy costs and cleaner air for our students and their families.”
The Clean School Bus Program has far-reaching effects on school districts and their communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive daily.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top-tier Nevada applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template, which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. The total amounts awarded and the number of buses may be adjusted as grants are finalized. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus Program, created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replace existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those who did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees must submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future funding rounds, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was adopted under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, producing zero tailpipe emissions and propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, resulting in lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Efforts to minimize the effects of these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost-saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets by replacing existing buses with new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed school resources.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations, and territories, EPA has nearly doubled this round's funding to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, to reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities comprise approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution. For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the complete list of Clean School Bus grantees here.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and X.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces at Least $17 Million in Awards for Clean School Buses Across Michigan as Part of Investing in America Agenda
CHICAGO (Jan. 8, 2024) – As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting children and improving air quality, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today announced the selection of three applicants to receive more than $17 million through the agency’s first Clean School Bus Program Grants Competition. The awards, which are made possible through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will help selectees purchase clean school buses in three school districts across Michigan. By accelerating the transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles, these awards will improve air quality for children and their families and advance environmental justice, all while boosting the economy and creating good-paying jobs.
School District of the city of Pontiac was selected to receive $5,925,000 to purchase 15 clean school buses.
Lansing School District was selected to receive $5,925,000 to purchase 15 clean school buses.
Detroit Public Schools Community District was selected to receive $5,925,000 to purchase 15 clean school buses.
In addition, Michigan is expected receive additional funding through third party selectees that are working with multiple states.
First Student, Inc. is receiving $39,499,635 to purchase 100 buses in Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Highland CSB 1 is receiving $29,365,000 to purchase 98 buses in Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“Today’s exciting announcement reflects this Administration’s ongoing commitment to the health and wellbeing of children throughout the Great Lakes states,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “Clean school buses not only provide students with safe transportation to and from school, but they also improve air quality throughout the neighborhoods they serve.”
“These grants will help Michigan buy and use clean school buses to take kids to school safely and keep the air in and around our schools cleaner, all while powering our economic growth,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “The EPA’s Clean Bus Program will help us upgrade our school bus fleets and build on work being done across the mobility industry to switch to electric. In Michigan we will continue taking action to meet the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan I unveiled earlier this year that will lower costs, create jobs, and protect public health while putting us on a clean energy path to carbon neutrality. Let’s keep working together to fund innovative clean energy solutions while prioritizing the health and safety of our kids and communities.”
“Electric school buses will make a big difference for schools across Michigan. This investment will improve air quality while helping our school districts cut their transportation costs and keep more resources in the classroom. It’s a great step to protect the health of our children and save schools money,” said Sen. Debbie Stabenow.
“Thanks to this major investment, school districts across our state can upgrade aging buses to safer, more efficient options,” said Sen. Gary Peters. “I was proud to help deliver this funding through the bipartisan infrastructure law to provide safer transportation for thousands of Michigan students who ride the bus to school every day while lowering emissions.”
“These school buses will mean cleaner air for Flint kids and greater savings for Flint schools,” said Rep. Dan Kildee. “I was proud to help pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law which continues to help rebuild and revitalize Michigan’s roads, bridges and infrastructure.”
“Today’s announcement is just one more example of how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver for Michiganders,” said Rep. Elissa Slotkin. “The Lansing School District will receive funds for 15 new electric and low-emission buses that will reduce harmful air pollution for Lansing students that take the bus to school. And other school districts across the state will benefit as well. As Michigan continues to lead the way when it comes to electric vehicles, it will be great to see the next generation taking them to school."
"I am overjoyed that the City of Pontiac was selected by the EPA as a recipient of the Clean School Bus grants, providing our district with 15 much-needed electric and low-emission school buses," said Rep. Haley Stevens. "Thanks to President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Michigan is a step closer towards securing its clean energy future. As we all breathe the same air, this is a win for the health and safety of all of the Pontiac community, especially our children."
“Children in our district have some of the highest rates of asthma in the state, and experience health complications from high rates of pollution in our neighborhoods. No child should be forced to breathe polluted air on their way to school. Our students in Detroit and Redford participating in the Clean School Bus Grant program is critical in making sure frontline communities like ours are benefiting from lower emissions. Our children deserve to breathe clean air,” said Rep. Rashida Tlaib.
"The EPA's allocation of Clean School Bus grants to Detroit Public Schools is a significant investment in our community and the health of our students. This move towards cleaner, sustainable transportation marks an important step in enhancing the environment and securing a healthier future for the youth of Detroit,” said Rep. Shri Thanedar.
“Before the new funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Michigan only had 17 electric school buses,” said Phil Roos, director of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. “This grant program has greatly accelerated Michigan’s transition to clean school buses, helping implement Governor Gretchen Whitmer's MI Healthy Climate Plan while lowering costs for schools, keeping Michigan on the leading edge of advanced mobility, and most importantly, protecting the state’s most precious resources—our children, from harmful air pollution.”
“We thank the EPA for these awards and for accelerating the equitable deployment of electric school buses across the U.S.,” said John Kenning, CEO and president of First Student. “First Student looks forward to continuing our partnership with the EPA as we work to fulfill our commitment to convert 30,000 diesel school buses with clean, electric-powered school buses by 2035. As the largest student transportation provider in the country and the leading operator of electric school buses, our team has the resources and expertise to not only bring students to and from school safely, but also work with school districts, utilities, and municipalities to build the necessary charging and maintenance infrastructure for the future. We appreciate the EPA’s recognition of the turn-key nature of our proposals and are excited to continue modernizing fleets and improving the environmental health of the students and communities we serve.”
“Thanks to funding from the EPA Clean School Bus Grant Program and support from a robust coalition of partners, we are proud to deploy electric school buses across metro, tribal, rural and suburban communities spanning five Midwest states,” said Joshua Williams, midwest regional manager of Highland Electric Fleets. “We look forward to demonstrating that all communities can access the benefits of electric school buses.”
“The Lansing School District is thrilled and grateful to receive nearly $6 million from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program. We are excited to bring 15 electric school buses to Lansing--buses that will provide cleaner air for our students and for all Lansing residents,” said Ben Shuldiner, superintendent Lansing School District. “As we roll towards a bright future for the Lansing School District, we are focused on a healthy environment, sustainable energy, and great student learning outcomes."
“The School District of the City of Pontiac is extremely proud to be selected as an EPA 2023 CSB program grant recipient. In addition to the 25 buses awarded to us in the 2022 CSB Rebate program, these 15 buses (in cooperation with our transportation partner, First Student Inc.) will allow the district to service 100% of its daily routes with Electric Buses,” said Kelley Williams, superintendent, School District of the City of Pontiac. “Providing for a cleaner, healthier, and quieter transportation experience for our students, staff, and community is a priority for the district.”
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top tier Illinois applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. As grants are finalized, total amounts awarded and number of buses may be adjusted. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus Program, created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses, and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replace existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was adopted under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, producing zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, resulting in lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Efforts to minimize the effects of these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets, by replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded this round to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, to reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities make up approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.
For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the full list of Clean School Bus grantees.
School District of the city of Pontiac was selected to receive $5,925,000 to purchase 15 clean school buses.
Lansing School District was selected to receive $5,925,000 to purchase 15 clean school buses.
Detroit Public Schools Community District was selected to receive $5,925,000 to purchase 15 clean school buses.
In addition, Michigan is expected receive additional funding through third party selectees that are working with multiple states.
First Student, Inc. is receiving $39,499,635 to purchase 100 buses in Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Highland CSB 1 is receiving $29,365,000 to purchase 98 buses in Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“Today’s exciting announcement reflects this Administration’s ongoing commitment to the health and wellbeing of children throughout the Great Lakes states,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “Clean school buses not only provide students with safe transportation to and from school, but they also improve air quality throughout the neighborhoods they serve.”
“These grants will help Michigan buy and use clean school buses to take kids to school safely and keep the air in and around our schools cleaner, all while powering our economic growth,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “The EPA’s Clean Bus Program will help us upgrade our school bus fleets and build on work being done across the mobility industry to switch to electric. In Michigan we will continue taking action to meet the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan I unveiled earlier this year that will lower costs, create jobs, and protect public health while putting us on a clean energy path to carbon neutrality. Let’s keep working together to fund innovative clean energy solutions while prioritizing the health and safety of our kids and communities.”
“Electric school buses will make a big difference for schools across Michigan. This investment will improve air quality while helping our school districts cut their transportation costs and keep more resources in the classroom. It’s a great step to protect the health of our children and save schools money,” said Sen. Debbie Stabenow.
“Thanks to this major investment, school districts across our state can upgrade aging buses to safer, more efficient options,” said Sen. Gary Peters. “I was proud to help deliver this funding through the bipartisan infrastructure law to provide safer transportation for thousands of Michigan students who ride the bus to school every day while lowering emissions.”
“These school buses will mean cleaner air for Flint kids and greater savings for Flint schools,” said Rep. Dan Kildee. “I was proud to help pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law which continues to help rebuild and revitalize Michigan’s roads, bridges and infrastructure.”
“Today’s announcement is just one more example of how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver for Michiganders,” said Rep. Elissa Slotkin. “The Lansing School District will receive funds for 15 new electric and low-emission buses that will reduce harmful air pollution for Lansing students that take the bus to school. And other school districts across the state will benefit as well. As Michigan continues to lead the way when it comes to electric vehicles, it will be great to see the next generation taking them to school."
"I am overjoyed that the City of Pontiac was selected by the EPA as a recipient of the Clean School Bus grants, providing our district with 15 much-needed electric and low-emission school buses," said Rep. Haley Stevens. "Thanks to President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Michigan is a step closer towards securing its clean energy future. As we all breathe the same air, this is a win for the health and safety of all of the Pontiac community, especially our children."
“Children in our district have some of the highest rates of asthma in the state, and experience health complications from high rates of pollution in our neighborhoods. No child should be forced to breathe polluted air on their way to school. Our students in Detroit and Redford participating in the Clean School Bus Grant program is critical in making sure frontline communities like ours are benefiting from lower emissions. Our children deserve to breathe clean air,” said Rep. Rashida Tlaib.
"The EPA's allocation of Clean School Bus grants to Detroit Public Schools is a significant investment in our community and the health of our students. This move towards cleaner, sustainable transportation marks an important step in enhancing the environment and securing a healthier future for the youth of Detroit,” said Rep. Shri Thanedar.
“Before the new funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Michigan only had 17 electric school buses,” said Phil Roos, director of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. “This grant program has greatly accelerated Michigan’s transition to clean school buses, helping implement Governor Gretchen Whitmer's MI Healthy Climate Plan while lowering costs for schools, keeping Michigan on the leading edge of advanced mobility, and most importantly, protecting the state’s most precious resources—our children, from harmful air pollution.”
“We thank the EPA for these awards and for accelerating the equitable deployment of electric school buses across the U.S.,” said John Kenning, CEO and president of First Student. “First Student looks forward to continuing our partnership with the EPA as we work to fulfill our commitment to convert 30,000 diesel school buses with clean, electric-powered school buses by 2035. As the largest student transportation provider in the country and the leading operator of electric school buses, our team has the resources and expertise to not only bring students to and from school safely, but also work with school districts, utilities, and municipalities to build the necessary charging and maintenance infrastructure for the future. We appreciate the EPA’s recognition of the turn-key nature of our proposals and are excited to continue modernizing fleets and improving the environmental health of the students and communities we serve.”
“Thanks to funding from the EPA Clean School Bus Grant Program and support from a robust coalition of partners, we are proud to deploy electric school buses across metro, tribal, rural and suburban communities spanning five Midwest states,” said Joshua Williams, midwest regional manager of Highland Electric Fleets. “We look forward to demonstrating that all communities can access the benefits of electric school buses.”
“The Lansing School District is thrilled and grateful to receive nearly $6 million from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program. We are excited to bring 15 electric school buses to Lansing--buses that will provide cleaner air for our students and for all Lansing residents,” said Ben Shuldiner, superintendent Lansing School District. “As we roll towards a bright future for the Lansing School District, we are focused on a healthy environment, sustainable energy, and great student learning outcomes."
“The School District of the City of Pontiac is extremely proud to be selected as an EPA 2023 CSB program grant recipient. In addition to the 25 buses awarded to us in the 2022 CSB Rebate program, these 15 buses (in cooperation with our transportation partner, First Student Inc.) will allow the district to service 100% of its daily routes with Electric Buses,” said Kelley Williams, superintendent, School District of the City of Pontiac. “Providing for a cleaner, healthier, and quieter transportation experience for our students, staff, and community is a priority for the district.”
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top tier Illinois applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. As grants are finalized, total amounts awarded and number of buses may be adjusted. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus Program, created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses, and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replace existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those that did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was adopted under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, producing zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, resulting in lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Efforts to minimize the effects of these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets, by replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded this round to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, to reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities make up approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.
For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the full list of Clean School Bus grantees.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces Over $40 Million Across Arizona for Clean School Buses as Part of the Investing in America Agenda
SAN FRANCISCO – As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting children and improving air quality, today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the selection of three applicants in Arizona to receive $40,090,898 through EPA’s first Clean School Bus Program Grants Competition. The awards, made possible through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will help selectees purchase clean school buses in 25 school districts across Arizona. By accelerating the transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles, these awards will improve air quality for children and their families and advance environmental justice while boosting the economy and creating good-paying jobs.
Chinle Unified School has been selected to receive $5,925,000 to purchase 15 clean school buses.
Canyon State Bus Sales Inc. has been selected to receive $17,759,398 to purchase 62 clean school buses.
RWC International Ltd has been selected to receive $16,406,500 to purchase 44 clean school buses.
In addition, Arizona is expected to receive additional funding through third-party selectees working with multiple states.
First Student Inc. has been selected to receive $15,775,000 to purchase 45 buses in Arizona and California.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride, and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“Clean school buses will improve air quality across the Valley and improve the health of our students,” said Representative Ruben Gallego. “I’m thrilled that, thanks to our efforts, more young Arizonans will be provided cleaner transportation to and from school.”
“I’m proud to support the investments the Biden administration is making to modernize school bus fleets with low- and zero-emission vehicles for southern Arizona communities,” remarked Representative Raúl M. Grijalva. “This federal funding is a critical part of President Biden’s promise to address environmental justice and accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy. These school buses will give southern Arizonans cleaner school transportation and help ensure clean air, less climate pollution, and a healthier learning environment for our kids and future generations.”
“We thank the EPA for these awards and for accelerating the equitable deployment of electric school buses across the U.S. First Student looks forward to continuing our partnership with the EPA as we work to fulfill our commitment to convert 30,000 diesel school buses with clean, electric-powered school buses by 2035,” shared Chris Bokelman, Sr. Director of Marketing & Communications at First Student, Inc. “As the largest student transportation provider in the country and the leading operator of electric school buses, our team has the resources and expertise to not only bring students to and from school safely but also work with school districts, utilities, and municipalities to build the necessary charging and maintenance infrastructure for the future.”
“Canyon State Bus Sales is extremely excited to have this opportunity to help Arizona schools provide the safest and cleanest transportation available for their students’ wellbeing,” said Michael McGrath, Owner & CEO of Canyon State Bus Sales General Manager. “We are honored to help make this positive impact on the community and the environment with the help of the EPA. We look forward to continuing to lead the alternative fuel school bus market in Arizona.
The Clean School Bus Program has far-reaching effects on school districts and their communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive daily.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top-tier Arizona applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template, which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. The total amounts awarded and the number of buses may be adjusted as grants are finalized. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus Program, created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replace existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional funding rounds.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those who did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees must submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future funding rounds, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was adopted under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, producing zero tailpipe emissions and propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, resulting in lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Efforts to minimize the effects of these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost-saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets by replacing existing buses with new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed school resources.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations, and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the funding awarded this round to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, to reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities comprise approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution. For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the complete list of Clean School Bus grantees here.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and X.
Chinle Unified School has been selected to receive $5,925,000 to purchase 15 clean school buses.
Canyon State Bus Sales Inc. has been selected to receive $17,759,398 to purchase 62 clean school buses.
RWC International Ltd has been selected to receive $16,406,500 to purchase 44 clean school buses.
In addition, Arizona is expected to receive additional funding through third-party selectees working with multiple states.
First Student Inc. has been selected to receive $15,775,000 to purchase 45 buses in Arizona and California.
“Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “I’ve sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride, and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden’s historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time.”
“Clean school buses will improve air quality across the Valley and improve the health of our students,” said Representative Ruben Gallego. “I’m thrilled that, thanks to our efforts, more young Arizonans will be provided cleaner transportation to and from school.”
“I’m proud to support the investments the Biden administration is making to modernize school bus fleets with low- and zero-emission vehicles for southern Arizona communities,” remarked Representative Raúl M. Grijalva. “This federal funding is a critical part of President Biden’s promise to address environmental justice and accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy. These school buses will give southern Arizonans cleaner school transportation and help ensure clean air, less climate pollution, and a healthier learning environment for our kids and future generations.”
“We thank the EPA for these awards and for accelerating the equitable deployment of electric school buses across the U.S. First Student looks forward to continuing our partnership with the EPA as we work to fulfill our commitment to convert 30,000 diesel school buses with clean, electric-powered school buses by 2035,” shared Chris Bokelman, Sr. Director of Marketing & Communications at First Student, Inc. “As the largest student transportation provider in the country and the leading operator of electric school buses, our team has the resources and expertise to not only bring students to and from school safely but also work with school districts, utilities, and municipalities to build the necessary charging and maintenance infrastructure for the future.”
“Canyon State Bus Sales is extremely excited to have this opportunity to help Arizona schools provide the safest and cleanest transportation available for their students’ wellbeing,” said Michael McGrath, Owner & CEO of Canyon State Bus Sales General Manager. “We are honored to help make this positive impact on the community and the environment with the help of the EPA. We look forward to continuing to lead the alternative fuel school bus market in Arizona.
The Clean School Bus Program has far-reaching effects on school districts and their communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive daily.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity’s top-tier Arizona applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template, which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. The total amounts awarded and the number of buses may be adjusted as grants are finalized. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
EPA’s $5 billion Clean School Bus Program, created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replace existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today’s Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional funding rounds.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program – and those who did not apply – to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees must submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district’s electric utility provider is aware of the school district’s rebate application.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future funding rounds, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was adopted under President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides an unprecedented $5 billion of funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, producing zero tailpipe emissions and propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, resulting in lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Efforts to minimize the effects of these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost-saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets by replacing existing buses with new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed school resources.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations, and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the funding awarded this round to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program’s 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, to reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America’s leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities comprise approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution. For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the complete list of Clean School Bus grantees here.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and X.
Biden-Harris Administration announces over $53.3 million in awards for Clean School Buses across Connecticut and Massachusetts as part of Investing in America agenda
BOSTON (Jan. 8, 2024) – As part of its ongoing commitment to protecting children and improving air quality, today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Connecticut and Massachusetts are set to receive funding through EPA's first Clean School Bus Program Grants Competition. The City of Boston and DATTCO, Inc. have been selected to receive over $53.3 million in total. The awards, which will be made possible through President Biden's Investing in America agenda, will help the selectees purchase 135 clean school buses in six school districts across Connecticut and Massachusetts. By accelerating the transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles, these awards will improve air quality for children and their families and advance environmental justice, all while boosting the economy and creating good-paying jobs.
City of Boston, Mass. has been selected to receive over $20 million to purchase 50 clean school buses.
In addition, Connecticut and Massachusetts are expected to receive additional funding through a third-party selectee that is working with multiple states.
DATTCO, Inc. is receiving nearly $33.3 million to purchase 85 buses for five school districts in Connecticut and Massachusetts.
"Today we're once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. "I've sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden's historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time."
"Today, Investing in America means investing in 135 new clean electric school buses that will bring kids to school all across Massachusetts and Connecticut. By prioritizing electric buses, we're not just reducing emissions, we're tackling environmental injustices, ensuring every child, regardless of zip code, breathes clean air and has a healthier future. From Boston to Worcester, and Hartford to the Cape, the air will be cleaner, and kids will not be breathing in fumes that will give them asthma attacks or increase the chance of future health problems," said EPA Regional Administrator David Cash. "In addition, thanks to these historic investments, the technology innovation that go into low-emission school buses are launching us into America's clean energy future."
"Since I came to Congress in 2019, I have advocated for clean school bus funding and tirelessly fought for inclusion in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Educators know how damaging diesel exhaust can be for students and our communities. The nearly $1 billion investment, announced by the Biden-Harris Administration today, will save Connecticut school districts money, create good-paying clean energy jobs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protecting people and the planet. It is great to see how these efforts will impact over seven million students across the nation. This is a huge win for our state and our country," said Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05).
"After years of fighting for investments in clean energy, I'm glad that we are able to deliver federal funding for a fleet of new electric school buses in Massachusetts. With this funding, we can reduce health risks from air pollution, boost domestic manufacturing while creating good-paying jobs in the process, and fight the climate crisis for the next generation. This is a big win for our communities, and I will keep fighting for more of these investments," said Senator Warren.
"This new funding for clean school buses from the Biden administration is going to help keep our communities and children safe from pollution, while creating a more livable future for Massachusetts residents and Americans all across this country," said Senator Markey. "We fought hard to include this funding in the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and I thank the EPA for enabling Massachusetts to continue down the road to cleaner air."
"More parents in Worcester can send their kids to school with confidence knowing they will ride on a pollution-free bus thanks to this EPA Clean School Bus Award," said Congressman James P. McGovern. "School bus exhaust fumes can have a debilitating effect on communities, increasing the risk of kids developing asthma and releasing greenhouse gases that worsen climate change. This funding from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law means more efficient, cost-saving buses can hit the road."
"Clean school buses are a vital part of communities' plans to not only reduce operating costs but also to improve air quality, supporting a healthier environment for everyone. New Bedford has made clear its commitment to its students and families as well as the environment and this award is an extension of that commitment, said Congressman Keating."
"These federal investments in clean school buses are a welcome and critical step towards improving the air quality across the Commonwealth, reducing health risks from air pollution, and fighting the climate crisis—all while creating jobs for families right here in the Massachusetts 7th," said Rep. Pressley. "This is the type of bold, intersectional investment needed in this moment and I am grateful to the Biden Administration for their efforts to protect our children, our families, and our planet. I look forward to our ongoing collaboration to advance environmental justice for all."
"The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is spurring important progress in Massachusetts. This investment will improve the health and safety of our students, reduce harmful emissions in our communities, and save school districts money," said Congressman Auchincloss.
"This unprecedented federal investment will mean healthier commutes for our students and bus drivers, cleaner air in our neighborhoods, and a giant step in our transition to a greener and climate-ready City. Thank you to the Biden-Harris Administration, EPA Administrator Michael Regan, and Region 1 Administrator David Cash for helping the City of Boston deliver for our schools and our residents," said City of Boston Mayor Michelle Wu.
"This historic $20 million investment in transportation is a testament to our City's and District's commitment to creating a greener school district. We thank the Biden-Harris administration for their leadership and support in helping us to continue to make our bus fleet and city cleaner, healthier, and sustainable. By being named as a winner in the EPA's Clean School Bus Program Grants Competition, BPS will further electrify our fleet of buses, reducing our environmental impact and improving the quality of life for our students and staff. This is not merely an investment in our buses, but an investment in our young people, our communities, and our staff," said Superintendent of Boston Public Schools, Mary Skipper.
"We are honored and thrilled to have been awarded funding under the 2023 Clean School Bus (CSB) Grant Program. This funding will enable us to procure and deliver 85 state-of-the-art, electric school buses, in 5 school districts in Connecticut and Massachusetts. These buses represent the cutting edge of sustainable, passenger transportation technology. Their deployment will have the direct effect of reducing emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants within disadvantaged communities. But they will also pave the way for the broader proliferation of electric buses within our region. As such, this award represents a significant milestone in our collective efforts to revolutionize school transportation in New England. This award is the result of the hard work of those not only at DATTCO, and its division DeVivo Bus Sales, but also of countless partners and community members that have helped," said Matt Kearns & Kevin DeVivo, DATTCO, Inc.
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students' health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity's top tier applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. As grants are finalized, total amounts awarded and number of buses may be adjusted. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district's electric utility provider is aware of the school district's rebate application.
EPA's $5 billion Clean School Bus Program, created by President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses, and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replace existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today's Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program—and those that did not apply—to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district's electric utility provider is aware of the school district's rebate application.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, producing zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, resulting in lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors. The clean school buses that will be funded under these grants will significantly reduce exposure to air emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter that cause health impacts to children such as the increased risk of asthma and other respiratory illnesses.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students' health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Efforts to minimize the effects of these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets, by replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded this round to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program's 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, to reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America's leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities make up approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden's Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.
For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the full list of Clean School Bus grantees here.
City of Boston, Mass. has been selected to receive over $20 million to purchase 50 clean school buses.
In addition, Connecticut and Massachusetts are expected to receive additional funding through a third-party selectee that is working with multiple states.
DATTCO, Inc. is receiving nearly $33.3 million to purchase 85 buses for five school districts in Connecticut and Massachusetts.
"Today we're once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. "I've sat next to students on their very first clean school bus ride and their excitement reflects the power of good policy. Thanks to President Biden's historic investments in America, thousands more school buses will hit the road in school districts across the country, saving school districts money and improving air quality at the same time."
"Today, Investing in America means investing in 135 new clean electric school buses that will bring kids to school all across Massachusetts and Connecticut. By prioritizing electric buses, we're not just reducing emissions, we're tackling environmental injustices, ensuring every child, regardless of zip code, breathes clean air and has a healthier future. From Boston to Worcester, and Hartford to the Cape, the air will be cleaner, and kids will not be breathing in fumes that will give them asthma attacks or increase the chance of future health problems," said EPA Regional Administrator David Cash. "In addition, thanks to these historic investments, the technology innovation that go into low-emission school buses are launching us into America's clean energy future."
"Since I came to Congress in 2019, I have advocated for clean school bus funding and tirelessly fought for inclusion in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Educators know how damaging diesel exhaust can be for students and our communities. The nearly $1 billion investment, announced by the Biden-Harris Administration today, will save Connecticut school districts money, create good-paying clean energy jobs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protecting people and the planet. It is great to see how these efforts will impact over seven million students across the nation. This is a huge win for our state and our country," said Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05).
"After years of fighting for investments in clean energy, I'm glad that we are able to deliver federal funding for a fleet of new electric school buses in Massachusetts. With this funding, we can reduce health risks from air pollution, boost domestic manufacturing while creating good-paying jobs in the process, and fight the climate crisis for the next generation. This is a big win for our communities, and I will keep fighting for more of these investments," said Senator Warren.
"This new funding for clean school buses from the Biden administration is going to help keep our communities and children safe from pollution, while creating a more livable future for Massachusetts residents and Americans all across this country," said Senator Markey. "We fought hard to include this funding in the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and I thank the EPA for enabling Massachusetts to continue down the road to cleaner air."
"More parents in Worcester can send their kids to school with confidence knowing they will ride on a pollution-free bus thanks to this EPA Clean School Bus Award," said Congressman James P. McGovern. "School bus exhaust fumes can have a debilitating effect on communities, increasing the risk of kids developing asthma and releasing greenhouse gases that worsen climate change. This funding from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law means more efficient, cost-saving buses can hit the road."
"Clean school buses are a vital part of communities' plans to not only reduce operating costs but also to improve air quality, supporting a healthier environment for everyone. New Bedford has made clear its commitment to its students and families as well as the environment and this award is an extension of that commitment, said Congressman Keating."
"These federal investments in clean school buses are a welcome and critical step towards improving the air quality across the Commonwealth, reducing health risks from air pollution, and fighting the climate crisis—all while creating jobs for families right here in the Massachusetts 7th," said Rep. Pressley. "This is the type of bold, intersectional investment needed in this moment and I am grateful to the Biden Administration for their efforts to protect our children, our families, and our planet. I look forward to our ongoing collaboration to advance environmental justice for all."
"The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is spurring important progress in Massachusetts. This investment will improve the health and safety of our students, reduce harmful emissions in our communities, and save school districts money," said Congressman Auchincloss.
"This unprecedented federal investment will mean healthier commutes for our students and bus drivers, cleaner air in our neighborhoods, and a giant step in our transition to a greener and climate-ready City. Thank you to the Biden-Harris Administration, EPA Administrator Michael Regan, and Region 1 Administrator David Cash for helping the City of Boston deliver for our schools and our residents," said City of Boston Mayor Michelle Wu.
"This historic $20 million investment in transportation is a testament to our City's and District's commitment to creating a greener school district. We thank the Biden-Harris administration for their leadership and support in helping us to continue to make our bus fleet and city cleaner, healthier, and sustainable. By being named as a winner in the EPA's Clean School Bus Program Grants Competition, BPS will further electrify our fleet of buses, reducing our environmental impact and improving the quality of life for our students and staff. This is not merely an investment in our buses, but an investment in our young people, our communities, and our staff," said Superintendent of Boston Public Schools, Mary Skipper.
"We are honored and thrilled to have been awarded funding under the 2023 Clean School Bus (CSB) Grant Program. This funding will enable us to procure and deliver 85 state-of-the-art, electric school buses, in 5 school districts in Connecticut and Massachusetts. These buses represent the cutting edge of sustainable, passenger transportation technology. Their deployment will have the direct effect of reducing emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants within disadvantaged communities. But they will also pave the way for the broader proliferation of electric buses within our region. As such, this award represents a significant milestone in our collective efforts to revolutionize school transportation in New England. This award is the result of the hard work of those not only at DATTCO, and its division DeVivo Bus Sales, but also of countless partners and community members that have helped," said Matt Kearns & Kevin DeVivo, DATTCO, Inc.
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students' health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
After an extensive review process, the EPA Clean School Bus Program has selected the Notice of Funding Opportunity's top tier applicants to receive this historic investment in their community.
Proactive and ongoing communication with key stakeholders, like school boards and local utilities, is critical to successful bus and infrastructure deployment. To ensure the successful implementation of the selected projects funding electric buses and charging infrastructure, EPA has created a Utility Partnership Template which encourages early and robust engagement between the applicant and their utility company. Additional details can be found in the Notice of Funding Opportunity on the Clean School Bus Program Website.
Grantees will work with their EPA Regional Project Officers to finalize project plans and purchase their awarded new buses and eligible infrastructure. As grants are finalized, total amounts awarded and number of buses may be adjusted. EPA is also partnering with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide grantees with robust technical assistance to ensure effective implementation. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district's electric utility provider is aware of the school district's rebate application.
EPA's $5 billion Clean School Bus Program, created by President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, includes both a grant program where selected applicants are awarded funds to purchase buses, and a rebate program that allows selectees to receive awards before purchasing eligible buses that replace existing school buses with clean and zero-emission models. Today's Clean School Bus grants are the second round of selections announced for the newly created program. EPA will make more funds available for clean school buses in additional rounds of funding.
EPA is currently accepting applications for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program until January 31, 2024. EPA encourages applicants not selected for the 2023 Clean School Bus Grant Program—and those that did not apply—to participate in current and future funding rounds. Once the application period for the 2023 rebate program closes and the school districts selected are notified, school districts can proceed with purchasing new buses and eligible infrastructure. Selectees will need to submit Payment Request Forms with purchase orders demonstrating they have ordered new buses and eligible infrastructure. After the selectees submit the proper forms, they will be eligible to receive rebate funds. All selectees must submit a Utility Partnership Agreement to verify that the school district's electric utility provider is aware of the school district's rebate application.
To learn more about the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website. Questions about applying for funding may be directed to cleanschoolbus@epa.gov. Questions about Clean School Bus Program technical assistance may be directed to CleanSchoolBusTA@nrel.gov.
About the Clean School Bus Program
The Clean School Bus Program funds electric buses, producing zero tailpipe emissions, as well as propane and compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, resulting in lower tailpipe emissions compared to their older diesel predecessors. The clean school buses that will be funded under these grants will significantly reduce exposure to air emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter that cause health impacts to children such as the increased risk of asthma and other respiratory illnesses.
The Clean School Bus Program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money for school districts, and produce cleaner air. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students' health and cause them to miss school, particularly in communities of color and Tribal communities. Efforts to minimize the effects of these older diesel engines will ensure cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and school staff working near the bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day.
The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from these bus replacements will also help to address the outsized role of the transportation sector in fueling the climate crisis. The Program will benefit school districts as they upgrade to cost saving and fuel-efficient school bus fleets, by replacing existing buses with brand new zero-emission and clean school buses and freeing up needed resources for schools.
In April 2023, EPA announced the availability of at least $400 million for its 2023 Clean School Bus Grants through a Notice of Funding Opportunity. The grant application period closed in August 2023 with an outstanding response from applicants seeking to purchase electric and low-emission school buses. Given the overwhelming demand and high-scoring applications, including applicants in low-income communities, Tribal nations and territories, EPA has nearly doubled the amount of funding that will be awarded this round to approximately $965 million. These awards follow over $875 million obligated to new buses from the Clean School Bus Program's 2022 Rebates, which funded the replacement of 2,366 buses at 372 school districts to further improve air quality in and around schools, to reduce greenhouse gas pollution fueling the climate crisis, and help accelerate America's leadership in developing the clean vehicles of the future.
Prioritized school districts in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities make up approximately 86% of the projects selected for funding. The program delivers on President Biden's Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized, underserved and overburdened by pollution.
For more information, please email CleanSchoolBus@epa.gov.
View the full list of Clean School Bus grantees here.