2017 School Bus Replacement and Retrofit Rebates

The Environmental Protection Agency announced a new round of funding for replacing or retrofitting old diesel-powered school buses. The 2017 School Bus Rebate Program will provide over $7 million to public and private fleet owners for the replacement or retrofit of older school buses. Up to $1 million of the funding total will be available for retrofit funding requests in the selection process.

Eligible Entities:

  • Regional, state or local agency;
  • Tribal government or native village;
  • Port authority which has jurisdiction over transportation and air quality;
  • School Districts;
  • Municipalities;
  • Private entities that operate school buses under a contract with an entity listed above.

Eligible School Buses:

  • Used to transport 10+ pre-primary, primary, or secondary school students to school or homes
  • Driven 10k or more miles over the last 12 months or in use 3+ days/week during the school year
  • Class 3-8 diesel-powered buses over 10,001 lb Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
  • Replacements: Buses powered by 2006 or older model year engines must be replaced with buses powered by a 2017 or newer model year engine and can qualify for $15k-$20k per bus depending on the GVWR of the replacement buses.
  • Retrofits: Buses powered by 1994-2006 model year engines must be retrofitted with a EPA verified Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) and have the option of adding a verified Closed Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system and Fuel Operated Heater (FOH). DOC retrofits can qualify for up to $3000, DOC+ CCV can qualify for up to $4000, DOC+FOH can qualify for up to $5000, and DOC+CCV+FOH can qualify for up to $6000 to cover parts and installation. These retrofit options are ideal for schools that are not ready to replace their older buses. EPA will set aside up to $1 million to fund retrofits in the application selection process.

For more information, please visit www.epa.gov.

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