The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has opened applications for the Texas Clean School Bus (TCSB) Program, which aims to reduce diesel exhaust emissions from school buses across the state. The program is part of the Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP) and provides grants on a first-come, first-served basis to support projects that lower diesel emissions.
The TCEQ’s initiative focuses on reducing children’s exposure to diesel exhaust in and around diesel-powered school buses. Eligible applicants include public school districts, open-enrollment charter schools, and countywide transportation systems operating one or more diesel-fueled school buses in Texas. Private schools are not eligible for this funding.
Grants can cover up to 80% of the eligible costs for replacing older school buses with newer models or retrofitting existing buses with approved emission-reducing technologies. Replacement projects must involve 2006 model year or older diesel-fueled buses that have been owned, registered, and operated by the applicant in Texas for at least two years prior to applying. These buses must also be used regularly on daily routes during the school year.
For retrofit projects, funding is available for the purchase and installation of systems such as closed crankcase filtration systems, diesel particulate filters, or diesel oxidation catalysts. Buses considered for retrofit must be actively used on daily routes and have at least five years of useful life remaining.
Applications will be accepted until May 22, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. CST or until all funds are awarded. Further details about eligibility requirements and application instructions are available on the TCSB webpage. Additional information about other emission reduction programs managed by TCEQ can be found at www.terpgrants.org or by contacting TERP staff via phone or email.
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