Seizing the Opportunity: Electric School Bus Funding through the EPA

Electric school buses are here to stay, but funding opportunities can pass in the blink of an eye. The transition away from diesel buses is critical for the well-being and safety of our kids, and for our planet. Recognizing the importance of this transition, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has made funding available to support the adoption of electric school buses across the nation. In this post, we will explore how you can take advantage of this funding opportunity, and some insights into the process of building your electric school bus fleet and getting it ready for the road.

Why do our school buses need to change?

Many kids ride the bus every day. When that ride involves a diesel bus, kids are exposed to exhaust that has been linked to serious physical health and cognitive development issues for students.

The World Health Institute has even labeled diesel exhaust a known carcinogen.

But the dangers of diesel exhaust don’t affect all kids equally. “Communities of color face higher on-road air pollution, and students from Black households, low-income students and students with disabilities are all more likely to ride the school bus than their counterparts” (ElectricSchoolBusInitiative.org).

Why choose electric? 

Going electric is our best path forward. Though there are a range of technologies that meet the new mandates, electric school buses are our best opportunity to transition away from fossil fuels, to offer a ride for kids that is clean, safe, and good for the environment. By replacing diesel-powered buses with electric models, schools can significantly reduce harmful emissions, improve air quality in their communities, and promote the health and well-being of students. Electric buses produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to the fight against climate change. 

Electric buses even operate more quietly, creating a peaceful and comfortable environment for students, drivers, and you.

Considerations for a smooth transition

This transition won’t be easy, and will require some adjustments to go smoothly. Consider distances the buses will need to travel in between charges, the cost of different types of charging stations, and how cold your climate can get. 

Talking with an engineering firm or your local utility company can shed some light on how to make electric buses work for your school district, and don’t forget to ask about how other energy-saving technologies, like solar, could benefit your community.

Here are some early topics to consider when getting starting with your electric school bus education:

• Stakeholder engagement

• Working with your electric utility

• Range and charging infrastructure

• Electric school buses models

• Maintenance and repairs

• Total cost of ownership

• Funding and financing options

Funding opportunities

Of all the important considerations you need to explore as you prepare to transition to electric, cost often comes to the top of the list. Check out state and federal opportunities like NYSERDA’s Truck Voucher Incentive Program and the EPA’s Clean School Bus Program as potential ways to offset the cost and make the transition more feasible for your community.

The EPA’s Clean School Bus Program is currently in its second round of funding, with $400 million in funding available for school districts and fleet operators. Applications for these competitive grants are open now through August 22, 2023 to all public school districts in the US.
Learn more about how to apply here.

This national transition will require local solutions

The decision to move towards a fleet of electric school buses can seem daunting, but connecting with knowledgeable advisors can make the process run more smoothly. Choosing electric buses will reduce emissions, improve air quality, noise reduction, and enhance student safety – but each community needs to consider how to make these buses meet their needs. Understanding the benefits of electric buses, discussing options with stakeholders, and connecting with experts are some ways to be as prepared as possible.

Want to talk to someone about how electric buses would work for your district? Get connected with an advisor in our region by emailing info@GRCC.us.