As the largest school district in its state, Voltsville wants to electrify its school bus fleet to provide a safer and healthier school environment. Voltsville uses its school district bus fleet to transport its youngest students and the city’s public transit fleet to transport its eldest students. Voltsville can be categorized as a disadvantaged community. To electrify the buses that bring its students to and from school, the Voltsville School District should:
- Apply for EPA Clean School Bus rebates: The EPA posts a new round of funding each year for school districts across the nation to access. These rebates cover the cost of electric school buses and the equipment needed to charge them.
- Work with the state’s department of transportation to access Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA) funds: While each state has a different application and match process, funds have historically been used to purchase electric buses for public schools. School districts can also partner with their local government to use DERA funds to electrify their public bus fleets, transporting the community and students simultaneously.
- Apply for Environmental and Climate Justice Block grants: Since it is located in a disadvantaged community, Voltsville can take advantage of the Inflation Reduction Act’s Environmental and Climate Justice Block grants. While details have yet to be published, both transit and electric school buses will likely qualify under the program.
- Apply for Energy Improvements in Public Schools grant: Voltsville can take advantage of the U.S. Department of Energy’s new Energy Improvements in Public Schools grant program to further electrify school-related transit. Voltsville can use funds to purchase both light- and heavy-duty electric vehicles to provide a safer and healthier environment for its students.
Please note that the case study above is imaginary and that funding pathways will be updated by the EC monthly. Results are comprehensive but may not be reflective of imminent program changes. EV Funding Finder users should also be sure to inquire about state-specific incentives that could further support projects. For additional information on deadlines and RFPs, check out the Climate Program Portal.