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Lawrence Public Schools Debuts Electric Bus Fleet

In a significant leap towards sustainable community transportation, Lawrence Public Schools has unveiled its new fleet of electric school buses. This initiative, in partnership with NRT Bus and Zenobē, marks the deployment of 35 electric buses, transforming the way students commute to and from school.

Collaborative Efforts Deliver Results

The launch event held on September 29, 2025, celebrated the successful collaboration between public and private entities, showcasing the deployment of 25 electric school buses and 10 minibuses. These efforts received crucial support from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC), with additional funding from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP).

Ralph Carrero, Superintendent of Lawrence Public Schools, emphasized the benefits of this project, stating, "The focus on cleaner public health, environmental sustainability, and financial savings for taxpayers showcases the power of public-private partnerships. This initiative embodies the proactive steps we are taking to ensure a better future for our community."

Scott Sheridan, Senior Vice President of NRT Bus, shared his excitement about the project’s impact on the environment and public health. "The launch of this charging site represents a key step in our mission to reduce emissions. It serves to enhance the daily experiences of our students, while also promoting cleaner air in our neighborhoods and financial efficiency for our schools."

Behind the Scenes: Charging Infrastructure

The new fleet rests at a charging hub powered by National Grid and Liberty Utilities that plays a pivotal role in optimizing the fleet's operational efficiency. This facility not only charges the newly deployed electric buses but is also a testament to a well-planned infrastructural strategy designed to support the broader needs of the Lawrence community.

Jake Navarro, Director of Clean Transportation at National Grid, noted the importance of fleet electrification in creating a sustainable energy future, highlighting how such projects contribute to modernizing the energy infrastructure essential for community development.

Environmental Impact

The introduction of these electric buses aligns seamlessly with national goals for reducing carbon emissions. The 25 newly deployed buses are forecasted to decrease carbon emissions by approximately 1.35 million pounds per year, equal to the emissions from around 136 gas-powered vehicles removed from the roads. Additionally, the funding of $1,670,000 allocated under MassCEC's ACT School Bus Deployment Program further enhances the sustainability of operations for future school years.

Zenobē's Role in Electrification

Zenobē, a leader in EV fleet and grid-scale battery storage, brings invaluable expertise to this initiative. With operations focused on electrifying fleets, their role ensures that the Lawrence Public Schools benefit from tried-and-tested solutions to integrate electric vehicles effectively.

Zenobē’s Executive Vice President, Maggie Clancy, commended the successful execution of this project, stating, "This partnership exemplifies how public-private collaboration can drive significant technological advancements while benefiting local communities. We aim to make such projects both environmentally and financially sustainable, fostering a future based on green initiatives."

Looking Ahead

As Lawrence Public Schools gears up for the 2025 academic year with this innovative fleet, it's clear that the community's commitment to cleaner, more efficient transportation is just beginning. The underpinnings of this project will not only foster sustainable practices but will also establish a benchmark for future clean transport initiatives across the region. This initiative encapsulates the essential shift towards electric transportation—one that prioritizes the well-being of students, the environment, and the community as a whole.