Missouri Propane School Bus Grant Provides $1.46 Million

Jefferson City, Mo. (Oct. 29, 2025)—The Missouri Propane Education & Research Council (MOPERC) announces $1.46 million in funding assistance through the Missouri Propane School Bus Grant to help Missouri school districts purchase qualifying propane-powered school buses and necessary fueling infrastructure. Funding is provided by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

The FY 2026 Missouri Propane School Bus Grant gives school districts the opportunity to add cleaner buses to their fleets, reduce harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and cut operating costs — helping protect their bottom line while supporting Missouri communities.

The application period opened Oct. 17 and will close on Dec. 15. Local education agencies (LEAs) and charter schools may apply for reimbursement grants of $50,000 per propane bus (up to four per district). This year’s program also includes reimbursements of up to $25,000 for new fueling infrastructure.

A detailed grant guidance document prepared by DESE outlines eligibility requirements and application procedures.

To qualify, buses must feature a propane drivetrain and a model year of 2025 or newer. Applicants who provide proof of purchase or commitment, along with any necessary documentation regarding infrastructure, may be awarded. For complete eligibility requirement details, contact David Tramel, coordinator of financial and administrative services with DESE, at 573-751-0357 or [email protected].

“Our district made the decision on propane buses to save money,” says Shawn Brady, director of transportation for Grain Valley School District. “The environmental impact is an added benefit. We’ve benefitted from much cleaner air and much quieter buses running through neighborhoods. There’s no reason not to make the move into propane now.” The district operates 27 propane buses and is committed to converting its entire fleet to operate on propane autogas.

Propane buses produce significantly fewer emissions than diesel buses while offering a lower total cost of ownership. Propane is 40% to 50% less expensive than diesel or gasoline and requires less maintenance over time. Propane fueling infrastructure is more stable, flexible and less expensive than electric alternatives. Buses powered by propane operate reliably in cold temperatures with an operating range of up to 400 miles and use fuel that is widely available, even in rural areas.

More than 23,000 propane school buses operate across the nation, including more than 700 sold in Missouri. Districts such as Grain Valley School District, Fort Zumwalt School District, Hannibal Public Schools, Neosho School District and Liberty Public Schools have successfully operated propane school buses for years. Learn more about their experience with propane buses at propanemissouri.com/school-bus.