The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that St. Louis Public Schools (SLPS) will receive $10,128,735 to aid in the purchase of 30 zero-emission vehicles. This funding is part of the EPA’s inaugural Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program.
SLPS plans to replace 30 diesel buses with zero-emission alternatives, aiming to cut emissions of nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and greenhouse gases. The initiative is expected to improve air quality for students and staff while reducing transportation costs. SLPS intends to collaborate with Highland Electric Fleets for cost-effective use of funds and successful project implementation.
This grant program was established under President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act and seeks to replace internal combustion engine vehicles with zero-emission ones. It also supports infrastructure development and workforce training related to these technologies. The projects are designed to reduce harmful emissions from heavy-duty vehicles and improve air quality nationwide, particularly in communities heavily affected by pollution.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan stated, “Thanks to President Biden, we are accelerating American leadership in developing clean technologies that address the impacts of climate change.” He added that the projects would reduce air pollution while enhancing infrastructure for cleaner transportation solutions.
EPA Region 7 Administrator Meghan A. McCollister praised SLPS's efforts: “We commend St. Louis Public Schools’ dedication to replace 30 diesel busses with zero-emission vehicles.”
There are currently over 3 million Class 6 and Class 7 vehicles in use across various sectors in the U.S., many of which contribute significantly to pollution levels due to their age. Reducing emissions from these vehicles can help protect vulnerable populations from associated health risks such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
The Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program promotes adopting eligible Class 6 and 7 zero-emission vehicles like battery-electric trucks and hydrogen fuel-cell transit buses. It also provides funding for vehicle fueling infrastructure and workforce development initiatives aligned with the Biden-Harris administration's goals for transportation decarbonization.
Approximately $523 million will be allocated towards projects serving communities not meeting National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Final award decisions are expected by early 2025, with project implementation spanning two to three years depending on scope.
Further details on this program can be found on the Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program webpage or by contacting cleanhdvehicles@epa.gov.
