Electric Buses Joining the DPS Fleet

DPS is officially going green! This year the district added two electric buses to its fleet, a small fraction of the buses that it operates daily but a great first step towards cleaner and quieter transportation. Durham Public School’s new electric buses were funded primarily through grant programs administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which support clean transportation initiatives. The district applied for and received a grant of $20,770,692, which funded the majority of the purchase of 32 buses. According to executive director of auxiliary ervices Anthony White, “Grant opportunities made it possible for DPS to adopt electric buses without placing a financial burden on the district’s budget.”

Unveiling of DPS electric bus

The buses will serve Jordan High School because it is a Title I school, allowing Durham Public Schools to comply with grant requirements while providing students access to electric buses whenever possible. DPS decided to adopt electric buses for several reasons. The district wanted to reduce emissions and improve air quality for students and staff, while also cutting long term costs on fuel and maintenance.

Students riding electric buses are already noticing the difference. The quieter, moother rides make the trip to and from school much more comfortable. As DPS grows its electric fleet, students will keep enjoying better air quality and the district's dedication to sustainable practices that promote their long term health.

"Electric Bus," Chase Buzby

Students aren't the only ones benefitting from the shift to electric buses–bus drivers are enjoying the quieter, smoother rides as well. Many report that the quieter rides make it easier to communicate with students and reduce fatigue during long routes. Drivers have also highlighted the bus's increased acceleration and responsiveness compared to diesel models.

Operating just two electric uses comes with minimal costs for Durham Public Schools, since electricity is the main ongoing expense and most infrastructure was covered by grants. Expanding the fleet in the future could face delays due to supply chain or manufacturing limits, and occasional charging station software updates have caused minor scheduling disruptions. “The district continues to work closely with the charging station providers to manage updates efficiently and minimize any impact on daily operations.” added Mr. White. Similar transitions are happening across the country. California, for example, has already incorporated large numbers of electric school buses into its districts.