Clean School Bus Rebate Program

Federal Agency

Sub-Department

Office of Transportation and Air Quality (OTAQ)

Purpose

To replace existing school buses with clean, zero-emission models. Rebate applications can request funds for replacing up to 25 buses.

Applicant and/or Project Eligibility Requirements

State, local and tribal governmental agencies that are responsible for providing school bus service to one or more public school systems; or purchase of school buses. Eligible expenses include buses, charging units, and electrical panels.

Decarbonization Considerations

Funding is available to dispose of old, diesel-powered buses, and replace them with electric school buses. Charging infrastructure must also be accounted for and installed. The more efficient the bus is, the larger the rebate.

Equity Considerations

The following school districts receive priority consideration: 1. High-need school districts and low-income areas (see limitations in the guidance), 2. Rural school districts identified with NCES locale code “43-Rural: Remote”, 3. Bureau of Indian Affairs-funded school districts, and 4. School districts that receive basic support payments for children who reside on Indian land.

Helpful Tips

The rebate application is "quick and simple" and the selection process is based on a lottery system

Other Notes

The program guidance and application process differ from prior EPA school bus rebate programs, so please review the detailed Program Guide before proceeding. In the 2023 CSB Rebate Program, EPA funding can be used for costs associated with workforce training for drivers, mechanics, electricians, and other essential personnel.