Minneapolis, MN – On Tuesday, January 9, Durham Public Schools (DPS) was awarded a $15 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through its 2023 Clean School Bus Program Awards. With this funding, the District will purchase 38 electric school buses, replacing more than 20 percent of its current fleet, as well as charging stations.
DPS partnered with SitelogIQ, a national leader in facility and energy efficiency solutions, in 2021 to implement a robust energy management program and through this program, SitelogIQ identified the EPA grant opportunity. Upon identification, SitelogIQ worked swiftly to gain support, identify diesel buses eligible for replacement, secure necessary authorizations, and assist with verifying documentation to certify the District was in high-need.
As a result, DPS will receive one-third of all the electric buses allocated to North Carolina in this round of funding. Per the EPA requirements, the funding will serve historically disadvantaged schools. This funding will allow DPS to take great strides in supporting Durham’s urban community and sustainability efforts.
“SitelogIQ is excited to see DPS’s exhaustive sustainability efforts supported and recognized by federal and local entities,” Rebecca Gladden-Reza, SitelogIQ Director of Advisory Services. “This award will allow DPS to continue being a NC leader and trailblazer in K-12 sustainability and environmental stewardship. SitelogIQ is committed to supporting DPS, and all our K-12 partners, through the transition to zero emission vehicles.”
DPS also partnered with third-party applicants, including Highland Electric Fleets, Carolina Thomas Buses, and neighboring districts, to create competitive group applications.
“We are extremely excited and proud to be the recipient of these funds,” said Dr. Pascal Mubenga, Superintendent of Schools. “This award demonstrates that our district places a high priority on quality of life, academics, and environmental justice for our students. The training and professional development for our drivers and staff will serve to further enhance the skills and services we provide on a daily basis. I applaud our Operations department for its futuristic thinking.”