Clean Electric School Buses

Potomac Edison, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE), has received approval from the Maryland Public Service Commission to launch a pilot program supporting the adoption of zero-emission electric school buses by local school systems. The initiative is designed to help school districts transition away from diesel-powered buses by reducing financial and infrastructure-related barriers.

The program supports Maryland’s clean transportation objectives under the Climate Solutions Now Act of 2022, which requires public school systems to procure or contract zero-emission vehicles moving forward. Potomac Edison will offset the cost difference between diesel and electric buses—typically about $250,000 per vehicle—and will also fund charging equipment and necessary electrical upgrades.

By addressing upfront costs and infrastructure needs, the pilot program aims to accelerate electric bus adoption, reduce transportation-related emissions, improve air quality in school communities, and support long-term cost savings for participating districts.

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