EPA Clean School Bus Program from US Environmental Protection Agency
Important Information
- Contractors are required to be EVITP certified.
- Build America, Buy America (BABA) requirements apply to eligible vehicle charging infrastructure equipment.
- Standalone infrastructure projects are not eligible.
Program Overview
The EPA Clean School Bus Program is a competitive bid initiative aimed at introducing new electric school buses and associated infrastructure to school districts across the United States. This program is part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s efforts to reduce emissions and promote cleaner transportation in educational settings.
Eligibility
The following entities are eligible to apply for the program:
- Public School Districts (local or state governmental entities, and public charter schools)
- Tribal Applicants (an Indian Tribe, Tribal organization, or Tribally-controlled school)
- Third Parties (nonprofit school transportation associations and eligible contractors)
Program Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Geography | Country-wide (United States) |
| Status | Open |
| Current Round | September 26, 2024 – January 9, 2025 |
| Previous Round | September 28, 2023 – February 14, 2024 |
| Official Website | https://www.epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/clean-school-bus-program-rebates |
Program History
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| October 1, 2024 | The rebate program opened for the current round |
| February 14, 2024 | The previous rebate program round closed |
Rebate Details
- Rebate Type: Custom
- Maximum Award: Ranges from $115,000 to $325,000, depending on bus and fuel type
- Up to 50 buses per application
- Rebate can cover up to 100% of the project cost
Priority Areas
The program gives priority to high-need and low-income areas. Applicants should refer to the detailed program guidelines for specific criteria and definitions of these priority areas.
Technical Requirements
- All Level 2 chargers must be EnergyStar certified.
- Contractors involved in the installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure must be certified through the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP).
Build America, Buy America (BABA) Requirements
The BABA requirements apply to eligible vehicle charging infrastructure equipment. This means that a certain percentage of the components and materials used in the charging infrastructure must be produced in the United States. Applicants should carefully review these requirements to ensure compliance.
Application Process
Interested parties should prepare a competitive bid for new electric school buses and associated infrastructure. The application should detail the number of buses requested (up to 50), the specific infrastructure needs, and how the project aligns with the program’s goals, especially in serving high-need and low-income areas.
Conclusion
The EPA Clean School Bus Program represents a significant opportunity for school districts, tribal schools, and related organizations to transition to cleaner, more environmentally friendly transportation options. By providing substantial rebates and prioritizing high-need areas, the program aims to make a meaningful impact on reducing emissions and improving air quality for students and communities across the United States.