A More Predictable School Year Starts at the Pump
The school year is underway, and transportation departments across the country are facing a tough reality: diesel prices are roughly 50% higher than they were this time last year. This is not a predictable way to start.
When fuel costs rise that quickly, school districts have to find the money somewhere. That can mean fewer field trips, consolidated bus routes or dollars pulled from other priorities. But districts operating propane school buses are telling a very different story.
Just look at some of the recent headlines:
Georgia
- CBS News Atlanta: Henry County Schools in Georgia estimates that each propane bus saves the district approximately $80,000 over its service life.
Pennsylvania
- CBS News Philadelphia: Council Rock School District in Pennsylvania has seen six-figure savings after transitioning its school bus fleet to propane.
Virginia
That’s the benefit of choosing a fuel that delivers both cost savings and lower emissions. With savings of $0.30 per mile or more compared with diesel buses, propane gives districts greater control over one of their largest transportation expenses, helping keep more dollars where they belong: supporting students.
And while propane doesn’t need subsidies to make financial sense, there are opportunities that can make the transition even easier. AmeriGas recently announced its Free Fuel for a Year program kicking off in November to help eligible fleets lower the cost of getting started.
The EPA also expects to announce a new Clean School Bus funding opportunity later this year, with propane included among the alternative fuel technologies being considered. Learn more here.
With diesel price volatility continuing to put pressure on school budgets, there may never be a better time to take a closer look at propane. It’s clean, proven, reliable and delivers real savings to school districts today.
Have a great school year!
