The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has allocated nearly $1 billion in grant funding for electric school buses throughout the United States. This funding will support the acquisition of more than 2,700 clean buses.
A total of 67 applicants have been selected for funding, representing 280 school districts that serve over 7 million students across 37 states. Notably, approximately 86% of the chosen projects are located in low-income, rural, and/or Tribal communities.
This initiative forms part of the $5 billion program established by the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The EPA’s Clean School Bus Program, with today’s announcement, has now awarded nearly $2 billion in total, enabling the deployment of approximately 5,000 electric and low-emission school buses nationwide.
Vice President Kamala Harris expressed her support for the funding, emphasizing the importance of investing in alternatives to diesel-powered school buses. She highlighted the detrimental health effects of toxic air pollution resulting from diesel emissions and stressed the benefits of electric buses in reducing pollution and improving children’s safety.
Electric school buses are not only more fuel-efficient but also offer cost savings over their lifetime. Furthermore, they do not emit direct tailpipe pollution, making them the most environmentally friendly and health-conscious option for student transportation.
This initiative not only prioritizes the well-being of children and their education but also supports the economy by promoting investments in American manufacturing and the workforce.
In addition to the environmental benefits, electric school buses contribute to the resilience of communities during natural disasters. Homeowners residing in areas prone to frequent power outages can enhance their homes’ resilience by adopting solar energy systems and incorporating battery storage. By doing so, they can ensure a stable energy supply and mitigate the inconveniences caused by blackouts.
To facilitate the transition to solar energy, homeowners can turn to EnergySage, a free and reliable service connecting them with trusted solar installers in their vicinity. EnergySage offers competitive pricing and pre-vetted installers, ensuring the delivery of high-quality solutions while saving homeowners 20-30% compared to independent sourcing. The service is user-friendly, involving no upfront costs or intrusive sales calls until homeowners select an installer and provide their contact information.
The EPA’s generous grant funding for electric school buses marks a significant step towards a safer, greener future. It demonstrates the commitment of both governmental and non-governmental organizations to combatting climate change and prioritizing the well-being of our children. By embracing electric transportation, we can create a cleaner, healthier environment for students nationwide while fostering economic growth and resilience in our communities.
