The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency now expects to start accepting applications for Clean School Bus Rebates in late April, according to the program’s website.

In its first report to Congress about the new program under the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the EPA indicated that it would start by offering rebates for the purchase of zero- and low-emission school bus replacements. The infrastructure package is funded with $5 billion to be spent during the next five years on buses that reduce harmful pollutants.

The EPA site encourages those interested in rebates and other funding opportunities to prepare by taking the following steps:

• Sign up for email news alerts about the Clean School Bus Program.

• Attend an informational webinar.

• Set up all required accounts. For example, you’ll need an active System for Award Management (SAM) registration for the applying entity. Be sure to include points of contact, including electronic business or government business contact with a valid email address.

• Create a fleet inventory to help determine which electric or other alternative fuel buses might best serve as replacements. The EPA offers an inventory spreadsheet tool for easy access.

Eligible recipients under the program are expected to include:

• State or local government entities that provide school bus service or purchase school buses

• Contractors that sell clean school buses or infrastructure equipment for same

• Nonprofit school transportation associations

• Tribes or tribal organizations that provide school bus services to schools or purchase school buses