Illinois to replace diesel buses with new electric models

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) — The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) is making $27 million of funding available for cities to replace diesel public transit buses with all-new electric models.

According to the IEPA, the grant will cover 75% of the cost of an electric bus and charging infrastructure, with a minimum award of $300,000 to government and transit agencies that apply.

The IEPA figures the funding will cover the replacement of 40 buses.

Winnebago and DeKalb counties have been identified as priority areas by the state.

The money comes from the Volkswagen Beneficiary Mitigation Plan, a settlement paid out by the automaker Volkswagen after it was alleged to have cheated on emissions tests between 2009-2015.

The IEPA says the goal of the plan is to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions in areas where the affected Volkswagen vehicles were registered.

“It’s no secret that transportation is the leading source of climate pollution—and it’s now time to incorporate a cleaner, healthier alternative,” said Gov. JB Pritzker. “With this funding, we’re incentivizing local governments and transit agencies to upgrade their existing public transit fleet with new all-electric transit buses. I highly encourage all eligible entities to apply for these grants and join us in leading the future of clean energy and sustainable travel.”

According to the IEPA, existing diesel buses to be replaced (scrapped), must meet the following criteria:

• Currently operating in the transit fleet
• Engine Model Year 2009 and older diesel-powered Class 4 – 8 transit buses; and
• Must be scrapped within 90 days of the new buses being placed into service.

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