Incentives

Applications are closed. Projects are underway.

Zero-Emission School Buses

Incentive amounts intend to cover nearly, if not all, the full cost of a new zero-emission school bus.

Maximum Zero-Emission School Bus Incentive Amounts

School Bus TypeWithout a Wheelchair LiftWith a Wheelchair Lift
Type A$280,000$295,000
Type C
$340,000
$355,000
Type D$360,000$375,000

Infrastructure

Local educational agencies can receive up to one ZESBI-funded charger for each ZESBI-funded bus awarded. Incentive amounts intend to cover nearly, if not all, the full cost of a new charger for a zero-emission school bus.

Maximum Infrastructure Incentive Amounts

Charger TypeMaximum Infrastructure Amount
Level 2 (L2)$20,000
Direct Current Fast Charger (DCFC) or Bidirectional DCFC*$75,000

An Incentive Recipient will be eligible for up to $95,000 for the first bidirectional DCFC requested. All remaining bidirectional DCFC requested after the first bidirectional DCFC will be eligible for up to $75,000 each. 

Example: If an applicant requests three zero-emission school buses and three bidirectional DCFC ($95,000 + $75,000 x 2), the applicant would be eligible for a maximum infrastructure award amount of $245,000.

School Transportation Program Incentives

At least 90 percent of the total grant award is to be spent on zero-emission school buses, supporting charging infrastructure and associated costs. Up to 10 percent of the grant award can be spent on the Incentive Recipient’s school transportation program.

The following example illustrates how incentives may be applied in line with program requirements:

ZESBI Website Chart displaying distribution of total grant rewards

To learn more about what expenses are eligible for reimbursement, visit the School Transportation Program section on the Eligible Costs page.