Understanding Energy Footprints of the Existing School Bus Fleets - A Case Study

<div class="section abstract"><div class="htmlview paragraph">Vehicle electrification has gained prominence in various industries and offers sustainability opportunities, especially in the context of heavy-duty vehicles such as school buses. Despite the prevalence of conventional diesel school buses (CDSB), the adoption of electric school bus (ESB) and other eco-friendly alternatives is increasing. In the United States alone, there has been a notable increase in the adoption of ESBs, indicating substantial growth. The electrification of school buses not only promises energy savings, but also offers health benefits to children, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and environmentally friendly transportation practices, aligned with broader eco-friendly initiatives. This paper investigates the potential for energy savings and reduction in environmental footprint through electrification of school buses in the Columbus, OH area. Analyzing current bus routes and road terrain data allows one to estimate energy demand and environmental impact, accounting for the unique characteristics of school bus operations, such as low-speed travel and frequent stops. The study suggests that electrifying school buses in the region could lead to approximately 61% of energy savings.</div></div>