Germany Relaunches Zero-Emission Bus Funding: Up to 80% Covered for Hydrogen and Electric Fleets

Germany fires up zero-emission bus funding again for 2025

Germany is back in the game when it comes to zero-emission tech. Starting July 2025, the country is rolling out a revamped zero-emission bus funding program, giving public transit operators a serious financial boost. Operators can score grants covering up to 80% of the cost to buy or upgrade to new battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell buses. And we’re not talking chump change—individual projects can receive up to €15 million. On top of that, funding for charging and refueling infrastructure can hit 40%, and it’s even higher if you’re an SME.

Previously paused, now back with full support

The program is being steered by NOW GmbH and Projektträger Jülich. If the names sound familiar, it’s because this initiative was suddenly put on hold back in early 2024—a move that put around 10,000 planned bus upgrades in limbo. Now it’s back in motion, but final greenlighting depends on the federal budget that’s expected to be decided this fall. It’s all under the watchful eye of the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMV).

Deadline’s tight—get those applications in

The clock’s ticking, though. Public operators looking to tap into this funding need to get their applications in by August 31. This isn’t just about cleaner cities—it’s a step forward in Germany’s bigger mission for industrial decarbonization and climate-neutral urban transport. This push supports the growing shift toward battery-electric buses and hydrogen fuel cells as part of a stronger hydrogen infrastructure across the country.