Distributed Energy Resources, GHG Emissions  -  March 31, 2022

Modesto City Schools Add Zero Emission Buses

Modesto City Schools in California purchased 30 zero-emission school buses to rapidly convert nearly 50% of its diesel-powered bus fleet to clean energy to reduce GHG gas emissions. 

The school district purchased the buses from the Blue Bird Corporation and will benefit from significant cost-saving opportunities by reducing or eliminating the fuel and maintenance costs tied to traditional diesel-powered vehicles. Modesto City Schools anticipates saving more than $250,000 a year in fuel costs alone by converting nearly half of its diesel-powered fleet to EVs. 

“The price of diesel fuel continues to skyrocket. Our Sustainability projects are designed to address climate change, reduce air pollution, and lead the next generation of students in learning about a Sustainable lifestyle with renewable energy, carbon reduction, and clean mobility options,” said Tim Zearley, Associate Superintendent of Business Services, Modesto City Schools in a statement. 

Blue Bird’s electric school buses were partially funded by California’s Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP). The California Air Resources Board (CARB) launched the program in 2009. HVIP is administered by CALSTART, a national clean transportation nonprofit consortium.