Revolutionary Partnership: PG&E and The Mobility House Unveil Electric School Bus Fleet in Fremont

Groundbreaking Initiative: Electric School Buses Transforming the Future of Education

In a landmark collaboration, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), The Mobility House, and the Fremont Unified School District (FUSD) have unveiled an innovative electric school bus fleet in California. This pioneering initiative showcases not only advancements in clean transportation but also highlights the integration of renewable energy into the educational infrastructure. With the implementation of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, these buses will not only transport students but also support the local electric grid during peak hours.

The Conversion to Electric

The Fremont Unified School District has installed 22 electric vehicle chargers, including six high-power bidirectional V2G chargers, enabling a fleet of 14 electric buses to operate efficiently. The transition will see the displacement of six fossil fuel-powered internal combustion engine buses, while the electric fleet continues to grow, with four new electric buses entering service this year and two more in 2026.

Mike Delaney, Vice President of Utility Partnership and Innovation at PG&E, emphasizes the significance of this project: "This initiative exemplifies how innovation drives a cleaner and smarter energy future. We're honored to partner with Fremont USD and support school districts across California in their transition to electrified student transportation."

Smart Charging Technology

The project is underpinned by The Mobility House's advanced technology, which includes the ChargePilot platform. ChargePilot efficiently manages the charging and discharging processes of the electric buses using open standards, allowing them to act as grid assets when needed. Gregor Hintler, CEO of The Mobility House in North America, explains the immense potential of electric school buses: "With their large batteries and predictable schedules, they can immensely benefit the electric grid. We are thrilled to provide the technology enabling the district to enhance energy resilience for the community."

Furthermore, FUSD can participate in PG&E’s Emergency Load Reduction Program (ELRP), where the buses respond to OpenADR signals—thus assisting in maintaining grid reliability during high demand periods. This model also demonstrates effective demand response for distributed energy resources.

Infrastructure Enhancements

To support this ambitious transformation, PG&E has upgraded the site’s electrical infrastructure. Key improvements include a new 480-volt three-phase service entrance, enhanced transformer capacity, and installation of 2,500 Amp switchgear to meet current and future charging requirements. Efficient energization processes were implemented to accommodate six V2G DC fast chargers, ensuring that the updated facility meets both existing demands and anticipates future needs.

A Replicable Model for Others

This groundbreaking project serves as a prototype for other school districts, following the successful deployment in Oakland with Zum and Oakland Unified School District in 2024. FUSD's engagement with PG&E's Electric Vehicle (EV) Fleet program, initiated in 2019, has already spurred significant advancements with 17 electric school buses and 13 medium-duty electric vehicles being introduced, backed by infrastructure and charging incentive programs.

Collaborating for a Sustainable Future

The fruitful outcome of this project is made possible through the cooperative efforts of several key players, including The Mobility House, Polara, World Resources Institute, Center for Transportation and the Environment, and PG&E. Together, these organizations are setting a precedent for environmentally friendly and resilient public transportation, one electric bus and charger at a time.

Ernest Epley, Director of Transportation at FUSD, reflects on the impact, stating, "We have already observed the positive effects of electric buses contributing to cleaner air in our community. Now, we have the opportunity to use these buses to deliver clean and reliable energy as well."

In conclusion, the collaboration between PG&E, The Mobility House, and FUSD highlights the transformative potential of integrating clean technologies in public transportation. As more districts look to electrify their fleets, initiatives like this will significantly contribute to achieving environmental sustainability and energy independence within our communities.