The Canadian federal government is collaborating with Langs Bus Lines in a major initiative to electrify their school bus fleet.
This partnership aims to replace nearly half of Langs’ diesel buses with 200 electric models, a move expected to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality for students.
Government Funding and Investment
This ambitious project is receiving substantial financial support. Infrastructure Canada is contributing over $22.2 million in federal funding through the Zero Emission Transit Fund (ZETF), while the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) is providing a $22.4 million investment. Langs Bus Lines is also committing more than $23.08 million to this green initiative.
The joint funding and investment will enable the purchase of 200 new electric buses by 2026. Additionally, a portion of the ZETF funding will be allocated towards installing charging infrastructure and upgrading existing facilities at five sites across southwestern Ontario.
This will directly benefit students in the most populated communities of Sarnia, Strathroy, London, and Woodstock, providing them with safe and emission-free transportation.
Feasibility Study and Accelerated Transition
A significant portion of the ZETF funding, over $600,000, will be dedicated to a feasibility study aimed at enhancing Langs Bus Lines’ knowledge and preparedness for the transition to an electric fleet. The CIB loan will also play a vital role in addressing the higher upfront capital costs associated with electric buses, thereby accelerating the transition process.
Langs Bus Lines, a family-run business with a history spanning over 50 years, provides transportation services for students across southwestern Ontario, including London, Sarnia, Chatham-Kent, Woodstock, and surrounding areas. The company’s transition to an electric fleet aligns with its commitment to environmental sustainability and improving the health and well-being of the students they serve.
Voices of Support
Quotes from key stakeholders, including Parliamentary Secretary Peter Fragiskatos, MP Arielle Kayabaga, CIB CEO Ehren Cory, and Langs Bus Lines Vice-President Kevin Langs, express their enthusiasm for the project. They emphasize the positive impact this initiative will have on the environment, students’ health, and the local economy.
Key Facts and Figures
The combined investment from the government, CIB, and Langs Bus Lines in this electrification project totals over $67.7 million. Replacing 200 diesel buses with electric alternatives is projected to reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions by more than 4,200 tonnes, equivalent to the yearly energy consumption of 550 homes. This project not only contributes to Canada’s net-zero emissions target but also supports job creation and the Canadian manufacturing sector.
The ZETF funding is part of the Government of Canada’s ongoing efforts to support communities in transitioning to zero-emission transit and school buses, contributing to a cleaner environment for future generations.
Since 2015, the government has invested over $24.8 billion in transit projects across the country. The CIB’s Zero Emission Bus Initiative, with a commitment of over $1.5 billion, complements the ZETF’s objectives.