The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is continuing to accept applications for round three of its Clean Air School Bus Program.
The program funds 100 percent of the cost of diesel emissions reduction technology that is certified and verified by the EPA. Installation costs are also covered. The program expanded to also fund up to $7,500 per bus for alternative fuels. The deadline for applications was extended to Dec. 30 of this year, or until all funds are exhausted.
Adam Ruder, NYSERDA’s associate project manager, said approximately $2.8 million of the round three funds has been awarded so far, with about $1.7 million remaining at this writing. He added that round one of the program funded $3.4 million in retrofit projects, and round two about $1.6 million.
The eligible diesel emission reduction technology includes particulate traps and filters, oxidation catalysts and diesel fuel-fired coolant heaters that descrease particulate matter, hydrocarbons, oxides of nitrogen, carbon monoxide and other toxic air pollutants. Eligible applicants include municipalities, school districts and private contractors that own or operate school buses in select counties.
