Sacramento Schools Transition to Electric Buses to Combat Fuel Costs and Emissions
The Sacramento City Unified School District (SCUSD) is making significant strides in transitioning its school bus fleet to electric vehicles. The district aims to convert 80% of its buses to electric within five years, a move driven by the need to reduce emissions and save on fuel costs. Currently, the district operates 105 buses, with 19 already electric and two more expected soon. This transition is supported by a $2.4 million grant from the Sacramento Air Quality Management District. The district's sustainability manager, Chamberlain Segrest, highlighted the volatility of diesel prices and the cost-effectiveness of electricity from SMUD as key factors in this decision. The initiative aligns with California's broader goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2045.