A feasibility study supporting the electrification of provincially owned school bus fleets in Atlantic Canada is underway after a combined investment of $495,000 from the federal government and the governments of New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Nova Scotia through the Council of Atlantic Ministers of Education and Training.
This was announced by Minister Sean Fraser, Minister Bill Hogan, Minister Krista Lynn Howell, and Minister Becky Druhan. The study will develop a roadmap that will enhance the provinces' knowledge of zero-emission transportation and provide valuable insights for decisions needed to proceed with the electrification. The roadmap will also cover infrastructure requirements, timelines, emissions reduction, long-term cost savings, and ensure that the provinces are prepared for deployments.
The study's overall objective is to help determine the requirements for electrification and assess the feasibility of transitioning up to 1,250 school buses in New Brunswick, up to 326 school buses in Newfoundland and Labrador, and up to 1,300 school buses in Nova Scotia to electric power. The initiative would contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future for school transportation in the regions. Prince Edward Island has already initiated the conversion of its school bus fleet to electric vehicles in 2021, setting an example for the rest of the Atlantic provinces.
