WILLIAMSPORT, Md. - Potomac Edison, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: NYSE:FE), has submitted a proposal for a five-year Electric School Bus Pilot Program to the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC). The initiative aligns with Maryland's Climate Solutions Now Act of 2022, mandating zero emissions for new school buses purchased by public school systems.
The proposed pilot program aims to assist the state in achieving its climate objectives by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. If approved, Potomac Edison will offer financial incentives to school districts within its Maryland service area for the procurement of electric school buses (ESBs). The utility will also cover costs for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, IT-related expenses, and technical support necessary for the transition.
Acting President of FirstEnergy's Maryland Operations, Don McGettigan, stated that the program is designed to collect data to understand and support the transportation and electrification needs of school districts. Additionally, the company seeks to explore using the energy stored in ESB batteries for electricity needs during grid emergencies.
Participating school districts will receive funding to offset the cost difference between an electric school bus and a diesel-fueled equivalent. The electric buses will comply with new state safety laws by being equipped with lap and shoulder belts.
This pilot program follows the PSC's approval to extend Potomac Edison's EV Driven program, which was launched in 2019 to facilitate EV ownership and charging in Maryland.
Potomac Edison serves approximately 285,000 customers in various counties across Maryland.
The proposal is part of broader efforts by FirstEnergy to prioritize integrity, safety, reliability, and operational excellence in its services. The information for this article is based on a press release statement from FirstEnergy Corp.
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