Description
The South Coast Air Quality Management District is offering up to $30 million in incentive funding to replace heavy‑duty school buses with zero‑emission models and to install associated charging infrastructure in Consistently Nominated Communities or Disadvantaged Communities within its jurisdiction. Applicants must be private transportation providers that own the existing diesel/CNG/propane buses serving public schools, meet CARB and Carl Moyer program requirements, and commit to operating the new zero‑emission buses for at least ten years. Funding may cover up to 95 % of eligible costs for both bus purchases and charging stations, with a revised cost‑effectiveness ceiling of $522,000 per weighted ton of emissions reduced. Projects must be placed in service within 18 months of award and will be subject to ten‑year reporting obligations.
• Eligible projects: zero‑emission school‑bus replacement (GVWR > 8,501 lb) and/or charging‑station installation.
• Maximum award: up to 95 % of eligible costs (previously 60 % for infrastructure).
• Application window: opens Feb 10 2026, closes May 7 2026 5 PM; online portal only.
• Required documentation: fleet compliance summary, DMV & CHP certificates, vendor quotes (≤ 90 days old), CARB Executive Order, land‑ownership evidence for infrastructure.
• Funding is contingent on meeting a cost‑effectiveness metric ≤ $522,000/ton and on the project being located in a CNC or DAC.