Oakland’s school district launched the country’s first fully electric bus fleet, highlighting both the benefits and challenges of transitioning away from diesel-powered transportation.
Adam Clark Estes reports for Vox.
In short:
- Oakland Unified School District deployed 74 electric buses that can also supply power to the local grid.
- Electric buses reduce pollution, improve air quality and can help mitigate climate change, but infrastructure upgrades are needed.
- Federal and state funds are driving the adoption of electric buses, but grid limitations remain a barrier.
Key quote:
“At this stage, we’re in a transition period that’s about replacing your old buses that are wearing out with the new electric versions. There’s still a lot of capacity on the grid available to do that.”
— Sue Gander, director of the Electric School Bus Initiative.
Why this matters:
Diesel school buses contribute to air pollution and disproportionately harm low-income communities. Electrifying buses not only cuts emissions but also improves public health, especially for children.
Related: School buses get a green boost with $1 billion EPA investment
