Author: The Record
Published January 26, 2025

William Crooks
An electric school bus (blue bumper) charging in Lennoxville, part of the Eastern Townships School Board’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet with greener technology

Eastern Townships School Board’s push for greener buses

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB) is ramping up its efforts to modernize its transportation fleet by transitioning to electric buses. With 14 new electric buses potentially rolling out for the next school year, the board is balancing environmental responsibility, safety, and long-term cost considerations in its decision-making process.

A commitment to green energy

Since introducing electric buses in 2017, the ETSB has steadily expanded its fleet, currently operating 23 out of 25 electric buses on the road. “The transition is driven largely by environmental considerations,” said Shawn Champigny, Secretary General of the ETSB, in a recent interview. While the upfront cost of electric buses is significantly higher than their diesel counterparts, government subsidies have played a vital role in making the switch feasible.

The board estimates that each electric bus saves approximately $8,000 annually in fuel costs. However, Champigny acknowledged that when factoring in the lifespan of the vehicles, the financial benefits are almost neutral compared to diesel buses. “It’s less about the budget and more about contributing to the green economy,” he noted.

Safety and reliability

Concerns about safety and reliability are common when introducing new technology, but Champigny reassured that safety remains a top priority. “All buses, regardless of the type, comply with Transport Canada’s regulations,” he emphasized. While isolated incidents, like a recent heating issue with one bus, have occurred, they are not unique to electric models. “We’ve had similar issues with diesel buses,” Champigny explained, adding that regular maintenance is key to minimizing disruptions.

To ensure uninterrupted service during harsh winters, the ETSB takes proactive measures. Staff start early on cold mornings to address potential issues, and buses are strategically assigned to routes that allow for mid-day charging if needed. Last year alone, ETSB buses averaged over 20,000 kilometres each, underscoring their reliability.

Planning for growth

The addition of 14 electric buses is part of a broader electrification plan that includes upgrading infrastructure. New charging stations, such as the recently installed unit in Lennoxville, are being added across the region. Upcoming installations in Stanstead and Magog will support the new buses and ensure efficient operations for longer routes.

Purchasing new buses involves a multi-step process, beginning with council approval and a green light from the Ministry of Education. “We’ve just completed step one,” said Champigny. The board will issue a call for tenders next, with decisions on reliability and cost expected in the spring. “If the bids come in and the costs are unreasonable, we won’t proceed,” he cautioned.

Training and adaptation

Despite the technological differences, electric buses do not require specialized training for drivers. “It’s essentially the same vehicle, just powered differently,” said Champigny. However, drivers are encouraged to adapt to slight variations, such as regenerative braking systems, which differ from traditional braking mechanisms.

Looking ahead

As the ETSB continues to refine its approach, collaboration with industry partners has been instrumental. “The early years were challenging, but we’ve learned how to work with the technology,” Champigny reflected. The board is keeping an open mind about the future, ready to adjust its strategy based on costs, reliability, and ongoing support from suppliers.

Ultimately, the goal is to maintain a well-functioning and sustainable fleet that serves students effectively. “Service to students is our priority,” Champigny emphasized. “We’re confident that electric buses are a safe and smart choice moving forward.”

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