The Monterey Bay Air Resource District (MBARD) is excited to offer school districts, Offices of Education, and public charter schools of Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties an opportunity to participate in the FY 2024-25 Zero Emission School Bus Program (ZESBP) and receive up to $400,000 for a zero emission school bus and up to $20,000 for EV infrastructure.

The ZESBP furthers the goals of the State of California with the goal of reducing children’s exposure to cancer-causing, smog forming pollution by replacing diesel school buses with zero-emission models.

HOW IT WORKS

The Zero Emission School Bus Program (ZESBP) aims to provide clean transportation options to children around the district.  MBARD can provide funding for school buses as well as charging infrastructure. School districts will apply to the program and work closely with MBARD staff to ensure program guidelines are followed.

FOLLOW THESE STEPS IN ORDER! Your opportunity to receive a ZESBP grant will be forfeited if a bus is purchased prior to full contract execution.

1. Research - Review the program information on the webpage and ONLINE APPLICATION for complete eligibility requirements and specific instructions to apply.
2. Shop - Do Not Buy yet - shop around and select your bus. Make sure you know the make, model, vehicle specifications and warranty terms.  If charging infrastructure is also desired, select a charger and make sure you know the charger specifications and installation requirements and logistics.
3. Supplemental Funding – If utilizing additional funding sources (HVIP), secure funds.
4. Dealer Estimate - Now that you know what bus/charger you want to purchase, have your dealer send you an itemized quote for both the bus and charger if applicable.  Charger installation is an eligible cost, therefore make sure installation costs are included. 
5. Apply - Submit your application at the Zero Emission School Bus Program Application.
6. Contract Execution – MBARD will process applications and reach out regarding project details.  If program requirements are satisfied, MBARD will present an offer in the form of a grant agreement.  Review and sign the contract if terms are agreeable.  MBARD will then review and sign.  Once this happens the contract will be fully executed, and purchase orders can proceed between grantees and dealers.
7. Purchase Vehicle and Charger – Work with your dealer to formally purchase your bus and charger if applicable.  Once purchased, schedule a delivery date and charger install date.
8. Delivery and Charger Installation – Ensure the agreed upon vehicle is delivered as well as the proper charger is installed.
9. Post-Inspection – MBARD staff will meet with applicants onsite to inspect the bus and charger; taking photos, confirming serial numbers and ensuring contract terms have been fulfilled. 
10. Reimbursement – MBARD will formally request reimbursement documents as required by program guidelines.  Checks will be issued to either directly to grantees or dealers, whichever is designated in the contract.

Helpful Links

EPA Clean School Bus Program

CARB Truck and Bus Regulation School Bus Provisions

New Vehicle and Engine Certification: Executive Orders for Heavy-Duty Greenhouse Gas Vehicles, Trailers, Zero Emission Powertrains, and Aero Devices

Zero-Emission School Bus and Infrastructure (ZESBI) from the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

For additional program information, please contact Eddie Ballaron at eballaron@mbard.org or (831) 718-8030.