Dominion Energy is launching the largest electric school bus deployment in the country. The first 50 electric school buses will be on the road in Virginia by the end of 2020. The company wants to add 200 buses every year so that by 2030 all diesel school buses will be replaced by zero-emission electric versions. This effort will improve air quality and aid in the transition to renewable energy. Fairfax County Public School district is thrilled to be a part of an important environmental initiative.
"In the last 8 years, Fairfax County Public Schools have decreased their carbon footprint by 27%," says Jeffrey Platenburg, Assistant Superintendent of Transportation Services. Not only does the electric school bus plan align with FCPS's environmental concerns, it's cost-effective as well. The maintenance costs of electric buses are significantly less than buses that run on diesel fuel. A plan that has economic, environmental and health benefits fits perfectly with FCPS's strategic plan.
Getting these electric buses on the road is an important step towards using more renewable energy in general. Dominion Energy has other projects involving wind and solar power. When those sources are not an option, electric school buses can serve as battery storage so more electric power can be used. 1,000 electric buses can power 10,000 homes. The growth of this program will help power Virginia before long.
This article is sponsored by Dominion Energy.