Transportation is the biggest emitter of Greenhouse gases in the Northeast. Electrification of cars is well underway. School bus electrification is also underway in some Massachusetts municipalities and other states: New York mandated 100% zero emission school bus purchases beginning 2027.
However, in Newton electric school bus deployment is stalled. This is worrisome for climate and especially because diesel buses emit toxic chemicals, dangerous for children’s health.
The EV Task Force, an independent group of citizens, has advocated electric school buses for over two years. In 2022 the 5-year contract with Eastern Bus Company was renewed. It now allows Newton to operate up to five electric buses. However, none have been deployed. Last year the City Council passed a budget resolution to fund a study of school bus electrification, but the Mayor chose not to approve it.
One hurdle is to find a depot. Various options are being explored. Funding is another hurdle. Electric buses have higher initial capital costs, albeit lower operating costs. Highland Fleets, an electric school bus provider, offered Newton a 12-year contract reducing the cost to roughly the level of diesel buses. However, Newton does not allow contracts longer than 5 years, although no state law prohibits a longer contract.
Newton has been a leader in green electricity through Newton Power Choice. Newton should not stay behind in the important task of school bus electrification. Voters, please urge your councilors to support electrifying school buses. Urge the mayor to allocate funds for a study of how to make this happen. Parents, ask School Board members to push for electrification. The children of Newton deserve our help.
Newton EV Task Force
Philip Vergragt
Leslie Zebrowitz
George Kirby
Don Ross
