The transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) school buses to electric school buses can bring numerous benefits to US schools and local authorities, including improved air quality, lower operating costs, quieter operations, reduced dependence on fossil fuels, and a positive community impact.
In the pursuit of sustainability, global governments and local authorities are taking actions to reduce carbon emissions. The United States, in particular, is leading the way, with school districts eligible for funding to transition from diesel-powered buses to electric school buses. The EPA Clean School Bus Program, an initiative established by the Environmental Protection Agency under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of 2021, provides $5 billion worth of funding over a 5-year period to support the shift towards low/zero emission school transport fleets. This EPA Clean Bus Program offers fleet operators the resources necessary to make the transition and establish reliable charging operations, playing a key role in the development of the EV school bus program.
This report outlines a comprehensive approach to acquiring funding for electric school buses (ESBs), determining the total cost of ownership (TCO), and ensuring successful charging operations. Furthermore, we will delve into the various electric vehicle (EV) charger options available for an EV school bus program, and provide guidance on monitoring charging operations.