Three Key Facts:
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- $7.9 million grant: Awarded by the EPA’s Clean School Bus Program, the largest electric bus funding received by the district.
- 20 new electric buses: This funding doubles the Philadelphia School District’s electric fleet from 20 to 40 buses.
- Community health benefits: The switch to electric buses will improve air quality for thousands of children and residents.
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The Philadelphia School District will double its fleet of electric school buses in the next two years. With support from a $7.9 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean School Bus Program. The EPA effort is part of Joe Biden’s clean energy plan.
“We are pleased to be leading the way here in Philadelphia as we grow our zero-emission vehicles fleet and create cleaner and healthier environments for our children,” said Philadelphia Superintendent Tony B. Watlington.
Community and Environmental Benefits
Transitioning to electric buses offers significant benefits. The reduction in diesel emissions means cleaner air for Philadelphia’s children, particularly in communities disproportionately affected by pollution. As EPA administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized during the grant announcement, “Today we’re once again accelerating the transition to electric and low-emission school buses in America, helping to secure a healthier future where all our children can breathe cleaner air.”
Beyond health and environmental benefits, this initiative supports Philadelphia’s ambitious climate action goals. Electric buses significantly reduce carbon pollution, representing a vital shift for a city aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050.
Addressing Challenges
Historically, Philadelphia faced financial constraints preventing a large-scale transition to electric transportation. Aging diesel buses remained in service longer than recommended, affecting air quality and increasing maintenance costs. The EPA’s funding provides a direct solution, allowing the district to leap forward in modernizing its fleet.
Future Implications
This project is part of a nationwide effort to transition from diesel to zero-emission school buses. The program will provide $5 billion over five years to local school districts interested in retiring their dirty diesel buses. As regional EPA Administrator Adam Ortiz noted, “These grants are further proof of EPA’s commitment to protect children, improve air quality, and contribute directly to communities. These once-in-a-generation infrastructure investments will have lasting impacts.”
