Michigan’s move toward cleaner school transportation keeps rolling. The state has awarded $35.9 million in new funding through the Michigan Department of Education’s Clean Bus Energy Grant program, backing 23 school districts across the state.
The funding will add 87 electric and 10 propane school buses, plus the necessary charging and fueling infrastructure.
Among the major recipients:
- Ann Arbor Public Schools – $4.09 million for 10 electric buses
- Lansing Public Schools – $4.31 million for 10 electric buses
- Van Buren Public Schools – $4.08 million for eight electric buses
Smaller districts like Standish-Sterling Community Schools and Riverview Community School District also received money for propane-powered buses and infrastructure.
This round builds on earlier state and federal investments, including $13 million through EGLE’s Fuel Transformation Program in 2019-2020, and $54 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 2022 for 138 new electric buses. Additional rounds in 2024 delivered nearly $70 million more, supporting over 250 clean-powered buses statewide.
In total, Michigan now has close to 900 clean-powered school buses in service or awaiting delivery.
Applications are now open for the next round of grants, offering another $44 million for zero-emission buses and infrastructure. Districts must apply by December 18.
State leaders say the push is about cleaner air and smarter spending.
“Under Governor Whitmer’s leadership, we are investing in clean-powered school buses, improving air quality, freeing up schools to invest in classrooms, and advancing the goals of the MI Healthy Climate Plan,” said EGLE Director Phil Roos.
Advocates say it’s also about kids’ health and driver safety.
“This is a win for schools, kids, drivers, mechanics, and the community,” said Kindra Weid of the Michigan Electric School Bus Coalition, It’s Electric!
“Cleaner air for kids, drivers, and the community is a victory,” added Katrina Morris, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Pupil Transportation.
