LTUSD receives $330,000 to replace diesel bus with electric bus

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. -The Lake Tahoe Unified School District (LTUSD) was recently awarded $330,000 from the California Energy Commission to replace one of its aging diesel school buses with an electric bus. The new bus arrived in December and has been transporting students daily since then.

The Commission's School Bus Replacement Program offers funds to replace old diesel school buses in disadvantaged and low-income communities throughout California. This program helps schools embrace next-generation zero-emission vehicles and improve children’s health by reducing their exposure to transportation-related air pollution.

“We are thrilled to see further progress made toward the District’s net zero energy goals,” said LTUSD Superintendent Todd Cutler.

The electric bus replaces diesel bus #12. The bus garage is now equipped with a charging station.

There will be a formal welcoming and celebration of the new electric bus at a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, February 5 from 1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. at the LTUSD bus garage at 1021 Al Tahoe Blvd. Guests are asked to wear masks and practice social distancing during the event.

“School buses are by far the safest way for kids to get to school. But diesel-powered buses are not safe for kids’ developing lungs, which are particularly vulnerable to harmful air pollution. Making the transition to electric school buses that don’t emit pollution provides children and their communities with cleaner air and numerous public health benefits,” said Energy Commissioner Patty Monahan. “The Energy Commission is proud to support this transition to protect the health of children throughout the state, something that will help all Californians breathe easier.”

In addition to providing health benefits, switching to electric will save the district money in fuel and repair costs. The Energy Commission estimates that schools will save nearly $120,000 in fuel and maintenance costs per bus over 20 years.

The Energy Commission’s Clean Transportation Program, formerly known as the Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program, will additionally provide funding for chargers to power the buses purchased through the School Bus Replacement Program. The Clean Transportation Program will also fund workforce training and development opportunities for drivers and maintenance technicians.