Upgrade or replace diesel school buses, or replace on-board natural gas tanks through the Lower-Emission School Bus Program. This program aims to reduce children’s exposure to harmful diesel bus emissions.
The Air District is currently accepting applications for all project types.
The Air District is accepting applications for public school bus on-board compressed natural gas (CNG) tank replacement, school bus replacement projects, and school bus retrofit.
Project Types
Funding is offered through the Mobile Source Incentive Fund on a first-come, first-served basis until all funds have been spent. Applications must be complete to be considered for funding.
Funds are available for the following project types:
- Bus replacement - replace 1993 and older buses with new diesel or alternative-fueled buses.
- Engine retrofit - install an emission control device (1987 and newer engines).
- Tank replacement - replace on-board compressed natural gas tanks (buses between 14-16 years old).
Eligibility
The following organizations are eligible for funding:
- Bay Area public school districts that own their own buses, including under the provisions of a Joint Powers Agreement (eligible for ALL three project types).
- School transportation companies that provide services under contract to Bay Area public school districts (eligible for retrofit funds ONLY).
- Non-profit agencies, private schools, and other private companies are NOT eligible for funding under this program.
How to Apply
- Determine your fleet’s eligibility for this program.
- Identify the project type for your bus.
- Gather the required information about your current bus or tank and replacement bus or tank.
- Application forms
Workshops and Events
View the Calendar for upcoming workshops, events, and deadlines.
School Bus Regulatory Information
ARB's Truck and Bus regulation requires existing on-road diesel vehicles including school buses that operate in California to be upgraded to reduce emissions. It is the school bus owner's responsibility to understand the requirements of the ARB regulation and how the regulation affects their fleet. The awarding of a LESBP grant in no way extends any regulatory compliance deadline.
Additional Information