Missouri schools can now apply for grants to replace diesel buses with propane-fueled models

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Missouri – The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has announced the start of a new grant program targeted at promoting the use of propane-fueled school buses, in a noteworthy step toward environmental sustainability. Supported by $1 million in funding, the Missouri Propane School Bus Grant aims to help school systems modernize their fleets using more affordable and environmentally friendly transportation choices.

This innovative program allows Missouri schools to replace older diesel buses with new, propane-powered models. Lower emissions of propane buses help to produce significantly less nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter than their diesel counterparts. This change should help to improve public health and air quality in the state.

DESE has announced the start of a new grant program targeted at promoting the use of propane-fueled school buses instead of diesel-powered
Courtesy of Cision via press release

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Changing to propane also has obvious financial advantages. Propane fuel costs 40–50% less than diesel or gasoline, and maintenance costs are far less as well. With less initial installation costs, the propane fueling infrastructure also provides more stability and flexibility than electric vehicle (EV) configurations. Especially in the budget-conscious environments, these economic benefits make propane buses appealing for educational systems.

For school systems covering extensive remote areas, propane buses—which can run for up to 400 miles on a single tank—boast with dependability even in frigid weather. Propane vehicles are not new in Missouri; more than 300 propane school buses run throughout several districts including Grain Valley, Fort Zumwalt, Hannibal Public Schools, Neosho, and Liberty. The state’s decision to increase propane use via this grant most certainly reflects the success stories from these districts.

Local education agencies (LEAs) and charter schools are eligible for the Missouri Propane School Bus Grant program, which caps four buses each application for reimbursement grants of $25,000 per bus. This significant subsidy seeks to speed the switch to a greener fleet and reduce the financial load on universities.

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Schools have a small window to get money for next year’s transportation requirements as grant applications open on October 15 and close in December. Grant eligibility calls for buses with a propane drivetrain and either 2024 or later model year. Schools already committed to buying qualified buses could also apply; retroactive assistance is possible.

Schools and interested parties may get further information by calling the DESE’s coordinator of administrative and financial services David Tramel at 573-751-0357 or via email. Tramel is available to respond to inquiries and offer direction on the application procedure, which allows schools to maximize their chances of profiting from this economically and environmentally friendly program.

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Adoption of propane buses has great potential as Missouri keeps funding better transportation options for students. It sets a sustainable model for other states to follow by reflecting increasing awareness and responsibility towards lowering environmental impact as well as operational cost control.

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