• Major Investment: New York adds $200M for zero-emission school buses, enhancing clean transportation in public schools.
• Health & Environment: Funds target improving air quality and reducing pollution, particularly in high-need and disadvantaged communities.
• Widespread Support: Backed by NYSERDA, the initiative aims to ensure every school district can transition to electric buses with ease.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced a significant $200 million increase in funding for zero-emission school buses, the second wave from New York’s historic $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act. This new funding, available through the New York School Bus Incentive Program (NYSBIP), supports school districts and bus operators in purchasing electric buses, installing charging infrastructure, and planning fleet electrification.

Governor Hochul emphasized the dual benefits of this initiative: “Paving the way for zero-emission school buses not only cleans our air, it protects the health and wellbeing of our students.” This program not only targets harmful emissions reduction but also ensures that students and residents enjoy cleaner, healthier environments.

Administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the NYSBIP offers incentives covering up to 100% of the incremental cost of new or repowered zero-emission buses, depending on the vehicle type. Schools can also receive charging vouchers to offset infrastructure costs and funding for fleet electrification plans, making electric bus adoption more accessible.

Priority is given to high-need and disadvantaged communities, with increased incentives for removing gas or diesel buses, purchasing wheelchair-accessible buses, and adopting vehicle-to-grid capabilities. School districts completing fleet electrification plans become eligible for higher funding amounts.

Since the program’s launch, over 75 school districts have applied for funds to purchase 350 buses, including 51 districts in disadvantaged communities. NYSERDA’s outreach efforts have included training sessions, webinars, and ongoing support for districts across the state.

Doreen M. Harris, NYSERDA President and CEO: “We look forward to supporting more schools with this additional Bond Act funding so more students across the state can enjoy healthy, quiet, and comfortable rides to and from school each and every day.”

Betty A. Rosa, NYS Education Commissioner: “This funding is a significant and welcome installment in helping school districts meet the costs of transitioning to zero-emission school buses and infrastructure. It’s an important step forward in ensuring that our schools can comply with this mandate while preserving vital classroom resources.”

Sue Gander, WRI Electric School Bus Initiative Director: “New York stands as a pioneering example of bringing clean, tailpipe-emission-free electric school buses to the students and communities who need them most.”

Julie Tighe, New York League of Conservation Voters President: “This $200 million infusion from the Environmental Bond Act is another major mile marker on the road to all electric school buses. It’s time for New York to retire the dirty diesel buses… and replace them with clean and healthy zero-emission rides.”

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NYSERDA continues to provide resources and guidance for school districts as they transition to electric buses, ensuring a smooth and successful implementation of this vital environmental initiative. Schools seeking assistance can contact NYSERDA directly.

Learn more about the program and available resources here.