$54 million funding available
Pilot an electric school bus risk-free.
The Utah Division of Air Quality (UDAQ) offers public school districts a fully funded opportunity to modernize their fleets. Test the technology on your local routes without impacting your budget.
*Webinar: Jan 14, 2026, 2:00 PM MST. Recording available for registrants.
Benefits of switching
Why districts across Utah are making the move.
Annual savings
Districts save an estimated $6,500 per year per bus in fuel and maintenance costs. Shield your budget from volatile diesel fuel prices.
Student health
Zero tailpipe emissions where students gather. Reduces exposure to pollutants linked to asthma and cognitive development issues.
Operational resilience
Proven performance in Utah terrain. V2G-capable chargers allow buses to serve as mobile power backups during outages.
Choose your funding option
We have simplified the federal grants (CPRG & CHDV) into two distinct paths based on your district’s readiness. Select an option to see the requirements.
RISK-FREE OPPORTUNITY
Option 1: Single-bus pilot
Designed for first-time adopters. Test the technology without dipping into your capital budget.
Cost share: NO COST SHARE. 100% covered.
Scrappage rules: NONE. Keep your existing fleet intact.
Funding cap: Up to $405,000 per bus + infrastructure and related costs for utility upgrades
No vehicle requirement: Your preferred manufacturer, size, and type.
Funding coverage
Grant cap vs. estimated cost of bus & charger
Fully funded (no district cost)
Note: Powered by the CPRG implementation grant.
10+ buses, 1:1
Option 2: Fleet modernization
Designed for districts ready to scale (10+ buses). Requires fleet modernization commitments.
Cost share: ~25% cost share required.
Scrappage rules: REQUIRED. Must retire older Class 6-7 diesel or internal combustion engine vehicle buses (1:1).
Funding cap: Up to $300,000 per bus (ADA compliant). $280,000 for non-ADA compliant.
Vehicle requirement: Electric buses must be a Class 6-7 bus.
Funding coverage
Grant cap vs. estimated cost of bus & charger
District covers remaining ~25%
Note: Powered by the CHDV grant.
What funding covers
Vehicle acquisition
- Purchase price of new Class 6 or Class 7 electric school buses.
- Purchase price of ADA-compliant electric school buses (eligible for higher caps in Option 2).
Infrastructure (behind-the-meter)
Includes:
- Charging hardware: Level 2 (AC) or Level 3 (DC Fast).
Ineligible costs:
- Utility-side upgrades (transformers on the pole, distribution lines).
Need help planning infrastructure? Download the Power Planner Guide
Workforce training
- Training for maintenance and operation of electric buses and infrastructure
- Driver, mechanic, and electrician training
ALTERNATIVE FUEL OPTIONS
Not ready for electric?
We also administer the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) program. If electric isn’t right for your route, you can still get funding to replace older diesel buses (MY 2009 or older) with cleaner diesel, CNG, or Propane models.
- Funding up to 25-35% of vehicle cost.
- Requires scrappage of old diesel bus.
- Proven technology for extremely long rural routes.
Cleaner diesel / CNG
Available for Class 5-8 replacements.
Timeline
Jan 2026
Kickoff webinar & readiness survey
Q1 2026
Assessments
Through 2028
Funding released
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I save my application and return later?
Yes. The grant portal allows you to save your progress. You will need to create an account to begin.
When will I be notified of an award?
Awards are reviewed on a rolling basis. Typically, you will receive a notice of award within 30-45 days of submission.
Do I need a quote from a bus dealer to apply?
Yes. You must upload a preliminary quote from a vendor to verify your funding request amount.
Contact us for support
Bekah Ashley
Clean School Bus Program Manager
(385) 867-7809
[email protected]