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Dominion Energy’s electric school bus initiative, in partnership with Thomas Built Buses and Sonny Merryman, has surpassed a notable 1.5 million electric miles driven in Virginia, marking a significant step forward in sustainable transportation within the education sector. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of collaborative efforts in pushing for cleaner, greener school transportation options.
Key Highlights:
- Dominion Energy’s program is the largest utility-led electric school bus initiative in the U.S.
- More than 135 electric buses are currently operational across 25 Virginia districts.
- The program has significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality.
- Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology deployment is anticipated in summer 2024.
Launched in September 2019, Dominion Energy’s Electric School Bus (ESB) Program has quickly grown to become the largest of its kind in the nation, facilitated by partnerships with Thomas Built Buses, a top school bus manufacturer, and Sonny Merryman, a leading bus dealer in Virginia. Currently, the fleet includes over 135 electric buses spread across 25 districts, with Fairfax boasting one of the largest contingents of electric school buses nationwide.
Adam Birdsong, a Dominion Energy manager, emphasized the dual benefits of the program: “Our program has helped school districts overcome technical and financial hurdles of electric school bus adoption while improving air quality.”
Whitney Kopanko of Sonny Merryman highlighted the importance of collective effort and robust partnerships in transitioning from diesel to electric school buses. The program’s comprehensive approach extends beyond financial aid, covering training, utility engagement, and maintenance, crucial for the transition’s success.
With 224 Jouley units expected by the end of the 2023/24 school year, Dominion Energy’s program has positioned Virginia as a leader in electric school bus deployment. The environmental benefits of this shift are significant, preventing 1,632 short tons of GHG emissions, enhancing air quality, and promoting health benefits for students and drivers.
Mark Childers from Thomas Built Buses praised the milestone, highlighting the “impact of collaboration” in advancing sustainable transportation for school districts.
Looking ahead, Dominion Energy is leading the charge in the deployment of V2G technology, enhancing the grid’s stability and supporting the continued growth of electric school buses through programs like the 2023 EPA Clean School Bus Program.
For further information on Dominion’s Electric School Bus Program and transitioning to electric school buses, interested parties are directed to Dominion Energy and Thomas Built Buses’ respective websites.
About Thomas Built Buses and Dominion Energy: Thomas Built Buses, a century-old institution, continues to innovate in the school bus industry, while Dominion Energy, serving about 6 million customers, is committed to providing clean energy and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
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