500 Million Available: Apply for Clean School Bus Funding

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has made available approximately $500 million in funding for the Clean School Bus Program, a initiative aimed at reducing the environmental impact of diesel-powered buses and promoting a healthier environment for students and communities. This program enables the adoption of electric school buses and charging infrastructure. Eligible applicants, including public school districts and nonprofit associations, can apply for rebates of up to $345,000 per electric school bus. Further details on eligibility, application process, and available resources are essential to understanding the opportunities and benefits of this program.

Key Takeaways

• The Clean School Bus Program offers approximately $500 million in funding for the adoption of electric school buses and charging infrastructure.
• Eligible applicants include public school districts, charter schools, and nonprofit associations, with certain contractors also able to apply on behalf of districts.
• Priority districts can receive up to $345,000 per electric school bus, while non-priority districts can receive up to $200,000 per bus.
• Applicants must set up an account on SAM.gov to apply, with full eligibility information available on the EPA website.
• Various resources are available to help schools shift to eco-friendly transportation, including fleet inventory guidance, EPA resources, tax credits, and market studies.

Clean School Bus Program Overview

Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Clean School Bus Program offers approximately $500 million in funding to support the shift of school districts and fleet operators to cleaner, more environmentally friendly transportation options.

This program aims to reduce the environmental impact of traditional diesel-powered buses, promoting a healthier environment for students and communities.

The program funding enables the adoption of electric school buses and associated charging infrastructure, supporting a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants.

Eligibility and Application Process

To participate in the Clean School Bus Program, eligible applicants must navigate the application process, which is open to all public school districts in the U.S., including charter schools, as well as nonprofit school transportation associations and certain contractors applying on behalf of districts.

Priority districts, including low-income, rural, and Tribal schools, will be selected through a lottery system. Applicants must set up an account on SAM.gov to begin the application process. Full eligibility information is available on the EPA website.

Funding and Resources Available

Approximately $500 million is available for the 2023 Clean School Bus Rebates, with priority districts eligible to receive up to $345,000 per electric school bus and non-priority districts eligible for up to $200,000 per electric school bus. This funding provides opportunities for schools to shift to eco-friendly transportation.

To support this change, various resources are available, including:

• Guidance on fleet inventory and eligibility requirements
• EPA resources, such as guides and templates
• Federal tax credits and state-level programs for additional funding opportunities
• The Electric School Bus Market Study and U.S. Buyers Guide for informed decision-making

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Private Schools Apply for the Clean School Bus Funding?

Private schools are not eligible to directly apply for Clean School Bus Funding, as the program prioritizes public school districts, emphasizing school autonomy. Private partnerships may be explored for alternative solutions, leveraging private sector expertise to support sustainable transportation initiatives.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Electric Buses Eligible?

The Clean School Bus Program has specific requirements for eligible electric buses, including minimum battery range, infrastructure readiness, compliance with vehicle standards, and meeting emission targets, with consideration for production capacity.

Can Funds Be Used for Bus Maintenance and Training Costs?

Funds from the Clean School Bus Program can be allocated for bus maintenance and training costs, supporting budget optimization, as grant allocation allows for expenditures on infrastructure, personnel, and operational necessities, ensuring effective fleet conversion and sustainability.

How Long Does It Take to Receive Funding After Application Approval?

Plotting the funding timeline is like mapping out a course through calm waters - predictable and efficient. After approval, the EPA typically disburses funds within 30-60 days, contingent upon the district's compliance with the approval process and funding requirements.

Are There Any Reporting Requirements for Funded Projects?

Grantees are obligated to submit regular reports on project metrics, guaranteeing funding transparency, including data on bus deployments, mileage, and emissions reductions, as well as financial reports, to secure accountability and program evaluation.