Propane-Powered School Buses

According to the National Council on Energy, Propane Autogas costs about 40% less than gasoline & 50% less than diesel per gallon, on average.

Propane-powered school buses are closer in price to diesel school buses and provide faster return on investment than electric.

School buses that run on propane autogas emit fewer greenhouse gases, smog-producing hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides and virtually eliminate particulate emissions compared with conventional fuels.

A 7.3L V8 Ford engine with a ROUSH CleanTech propane fuel system is certified to the optional ultra-low nitrogen oxide (NOx) level of 0.02 grams per brake horsepower-hour, which is 90% cleaner than EPA’s most stringent heavy-duty engine standard and 99% cleaner than diesel buses built before 2007.

Propane burns cleaner than gasoline and diesel, producing fewer carbon deposits and reducing contamination of engine oil. This results in less wear on engine components, prolonging the life of the engine and reducing the need for maintenance such as spark plug and oil changes.

A case study from the U.S. Energy Department’s Alternative Fuels Data Center explains how school districts save nearly 50% on a cost per mile basis for fuel and maintenance.

Propane is compliant with both Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations due to its clean-burning properties and lower emissions profile. Here’s how propane meets these regulatory standards:

Compliance with EPA Regulations

1. Emission Standards: The EPA sets stringent emissions standards for various pollutants, including nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), hydrocarbons (HC), and carbon monoxide (CO). Propane-fueled vehicles and engines typically produce lower levels of these pollutants compared to gasoline and diesel engines, which helps them meet or exceed EPA standards​ (National Council on Energy).
2. Alternative Fuel Credits: Under the Clean Air Act, propane is recognized as an alternative fuel. Vehicles powered by propane may qualify for various incentives and credits aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting cleaner transportation options​.
3. Certification and Testing: Propane engines and conversion systems must undergo certification and testing to ensure compliance with EPA emissions standards. These tests verify that propane-powered vehicles meet the necessary requirements for pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions​.

Compliance with CARB Regulations

1. Stringent Emissions Standards: CARB sets some of the most stringent emissions standards in the world, focusing on reducing smog-forming pollutants and greenhouse gases. Propane’s lower emissions of NOx, CO, and hydrocarbons help it comply with these tough standards​.
2. Verification and Certification: Similar to the EPA process, propane engines and vehicles must be verified and certified by CARB. This involves rigorous testing to ensure that they meet California’s emissions standards. Certified propane conversion kits and engines are available, ensuring that vehicles comply with CARB regulations when operating on propane​.

Both the EPA and CARB offer various incentives, grants, and programs to encourage the use of cleaner fuels like propane. These programs help offset the costs of converting fleets to propane and support the adoption of cleaner technologies​.

Visit epa.gov/cleanschoolbus to learn more about how much you can save and apply for grants.