New York State has announced a groundbreaking policy change that mandates all school districts to fully electrify their bus fleets by 2035, marking a significant step in the state’s commitment to environmental sustainability. This initiative is part of New York’s ambitious climate strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 85% by 2050. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is spearheading this transition, with critical milestones in place, including the requirement that all new school bus purchases or leases be electric by 2027, and a complete shift to electric buses by 2035. This move is essential for improving air quality, particularly in communities where children are most susceptible to the harmful effects of diesel exhaust. The transition involves more than just buying electric buses; it requires comprehensive planning and infrastructure development. School districts must install charging stations, modify their operations, and train staff to handle any operational changes. To facilitate this, New York State is providing financial incentives and technical support to help school districts navigate the associated costs and logistical challenges. NYSERDA plays a crucial role in offering detailed guidance on selecting appropriate vehicles, planning for charging infrastructure, and ensuring staff are adequately trained to operate and maintain these buses. Financial incentives, such as the New York Truck Voucher Incentive Program (NYTVIP) and Clean Transportation Prizes, are designed to offset the higher initial costs of electric buses. The NYTVIP program, for instance, can cover between $120,000 to $220,000 per bus, depending on the vehicle’s type and size, making the transition more financially feasible for districts. The state's overarching goal is to ensure that all school districts, regardless of their size or location, have the resources, knowledge, and support necessary to successfully transition to an all- electric bus fleet, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for future generations.
Article by Manjot Heer, Investment Manager, Zeti
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