As the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) launches the second round of funding for its Clean School Bus (CSB) program, you may be wondering about changes to the program, updated eligibility requirements, important deadlines to secure funding, and resources to support you through the application process. As the Electric Bus Authority, Thomas Built Buses can assist you with this process, providing valuable guidance to help you successfully secure funding. In addition, our Infrastructure Consulting team is here to help you think through and implement your electrification program after you receive the funding.
So, what’s new in this round?
Overview of the New Clean School Bus Program Grants
Round two of the CSB Program – titled the Clean School Bus Program Grants NOFO (Notice of Funding Opportunity) – opened on April 24, 2023 and is a competitive grant program designed to provide funding for the replacement of existing diesel engine school buses with clean and zero-emissions (ZE) school buses, as well as the purchase of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) infrastructure and installations. School districts, tribal organizations, and other entities that operate school buses are eligible to apply for the grants.
The EPA has set aside $400 million in competitive grants for the program, which is a little different from the previous year’s rebate program. Not unlike the last round, this year’s program will again cover buses and charging infrastructure, further providing clean and sustainable transportation solutions for school districts across the United States.
Application Process and Key Points
If you are interested in applying for this round of funding, here are some essential things to keep in mind:
- All application packages must be submitted electronically to EPA through Grants.gov no later than Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. (ET) to be considered.
- Potential applicants without a Grants.gov account are encouraged to initiate the registration process well ahead of the deadline, as this process will require an active System for Award Management (SAM) registration, which can take one month or more to be approved.
- Applicants that applied to a previous CSB funding round are eligible to apply for this round, plus any future CSB funding opportunities. Applicants must apply to each opportunity separately, as the EPA will not carry forward applications from previous rounds.
Your Partner for All Things CSB
At Thomas Built Buses, we understand that the application process for funding opportunities like the CSB Program can be daunting.
Our team of experts can provide support by reviewing your grant proposal and offering feedback to pinpoint areas of improvement, in addition to conducting an audit to ensure that all the necessary components are included in the application before submission.
We can also be there for you even after you receive the funding, guiding you through the implementation of the infrastructure and providing ongoing support for your electric school buses.
We’re committed to making your journey a smooth one. Reach out to our team of experts and take advantage of this funding opportunity. Together, we can build a cleaner and more sustainable future for the next generation.
