On May 3rd, 2021, Sooke School District (SD 62) began using the first electric school bus in British Columbia. It is one of two International buses the school district purchased with support from CleanBC Go Electric Rebates (previously known as SUVI). These buses will provide of all the usual EV advantages: lower costs from maintenance and fuel, zero emissions, a smoother ride and quiet operation.
“I am constantly inspired by youth who push us to think about our environmental impact and their future,” said Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Education. “By making green investments in transportation and facilities, B.C. school districts can ensure students live, play and learn in cleaner communities that reflect our shared commitments.”
While the Sooke district is the first in B.C. to put an electric school bus into operation, more will go electric in 2021. SD 62 is one of 13 districts that purchased a total of 18 electric buses in a joint effort with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation:
The following school districts have purchased electric buses for 2020-21:
Electric school buses are supported by CleanBC Go Electric Rebates (previously known as SUVI) in the On Road Medium- and Heavy-Duty vehicle category. See buses and other options in the eligible vehicles list.
