RTC is seeking funding for six replcement hydrogen fuel cell electric buses (fceb) and associated fueling infrastructure to replace aging diesel hybrid units that are well beyond their useful life and…

The Federal Transit Administration awarded Regional Transportation Commission of Washoe County $10.305 million on April 21, 2026, under the Buses and Bus Facilities Formula, Competitive, and Low or No Emissions Programs (CFDA 20.526) to procure six hydrogen fuel cell electric buses and associated fueling infrastructure that will replace aging diesel-hybrid units and expand RTC's zero-emission fleet serving the Reno-Sparks metropolitan area and Washoe County.

RTC's activities include purchasing the hydrogen buses, installing a hydrogen tank and fueling station, and obtaining training and consulting services. The hydrogen fleet addresses operational limitations of battery-electric technology by providing extended range to cover all transit routes and enabling faster refueling compared to traditional battery systems. The project aims to reduce energy consumption, harmful emissions, and direct carbon emissions. The Reno area faces poor air quality and environmental justice concerns; the zero-emission bus expansion will benefit transit riders and the broader community by eliminating emissions from the replaced diesel-hybrid fleet.

The award carries an obligated amount of $10.305 million with an ultimate completion date of February 1, 2027. Place of performance is Nevada. No sub-recipients are identified on this award.

Activities

Purchase hydrogen buses purchase hydrogen tank and fueling station training and consulting.

Expected outcomes

Reduce energy consumption reduce harmful emissions reduce direct carbon emissions.

Intended beneficiaries

The reno area is a region with poor air quality and other environmental justice concerns where strong demand for transit services already exists. The expansion of zero emission buses in this region will not only benefit transit riders but also the community at-large by eliminating emissions generated from the older diesel-hybrid powered buses.