The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NC DPI) has been awarded a $8,680,000 Project Grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the federal Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Program (CFDA 66.049). The funding will be used to replace 31 eligible internal combustion engine school buses operated by 13 school districts in North Carolina with new zero-emission electric school buses. The grant will also provide for the purchase, installation, operation, and maintenance of 31 direct current (DC) fast charging units to support the new electric bus fleet. Additionally, the project includes workforce development and training programs to build capacity for maintaining, charging, fueling, and operating the zero-emission school buses. The anticipated outcomes include increased student ridership on electric buses, reduced diesel emissions and noise pollution, and enhanced public awareness of clean transportation technologies in the affected communities. The grant period extends from February 1, 2025 through January 31, 2028.