PGE grant looks to bring electric school buses to Oregon

PORTLAND, Ore. – Students in the Portland metro area could soon be getting to class on cleaner, quieter, and more cost-effective school buses, thanks in part to a Portland General Electric grant program.

The utility announced Tuesday that it is launching a program to help up to four districts in the region start the transition to electric school buses.

“Transportation is the largest source of carbon emissions in the state, making an electrified transportation system critical to a low-carbon future,” said PGE’s Vice President and CCO, John McFarland. “PGE is committed to supporting an electric transportation system that serves everyone, and this program extends the benefits to students and the neighborhoods where they live.”

PGE said the program will be funded by Oregon Clean Fuel Program credits. It will help districts pay for the incremental cost of the buses, as well as training for drivers and mechanics, and the equipment needed to charge them.

The company said the program is part of their larger initiative “to invest its Oregon Clean Fuels Program credits in ways that help make electric transportation available to everyone.”

People interested in learning more about the program, or any districts interested in applying for a grant can find more information on the utility’s website.