#United States #Xcel Energy #Lakewood #Highland Electric #Jeffco Public Schools

Jeffco Public Schools Unveils Electric School Buses

In a pioneering move towards sustainable transportation, Jefferson County Public Schools has officially launched a fleet of six new electric school buses, with the support of Xcel Energy and Highland Electric Fleets. This initiative not only represents a significant investment in cleaner air but also aligns with broader efforts to modernize student transportation and enhance community health in Lakewood, Colorado.

A Step Towards Efficient and Eco-Friendly Transportation

The ribbon-cutting ceremony held on September 30, 2026, marks a crucial milestone in the district's commitment to improving the environment for students and staff. Jeff Gatlin, Chief Operating Officer at Jeffco Public Schools, expressed the partnership's excitement: “These new electric buses will deliver cleaner air for our students and schools while giving us a hands-on look at how innovative energy solutions can benefit our entire Lakewood community.”

The electric school buses will begin serving students right away, offering a glimpse into the future of transportation within the educational sector. This launch is a part of Xcel Energy's $3.4 million Electric School Bus Program, which aims to transition school districts statewide towards electric alternatives, with a total support for 38 electric buses and 30 bidirectional charging systems.

Bidirectional Charging Technology: A Game Changer

In an innovative twist, the new fleet comes equipped with bidirectional charging technology, allowing the buses to act as mobile energy assets. This means that the buses can store excess electricity in their batteries and return power to the grid when necessary. This feature not only supports the local energy infrastructure but also decreases reliance on traditional energy sources.

Brian Buccella, Chief Commercial Officer of Highland Electric Fleets, emphasized the importance of this technology: “Replacing just five diesel buses with electric school buses can reduce pediatric asthma risk for 1,500 students, while bidirectional technology creates the potential for those same buses to serve as mobile energy assets when they aren't on the road.”

This trial project offers valuable insights into the integration of electrification in fleet operations and how communities can benefit from modernized energy solutions.

The Path Forward

Robert Kenney, president of Xcel Energy – Colorado, highlighted the broader implications of this initiative. He stated, “Electric school buses are creating new opportunities for schools to modernize their fleets while supporting Colorado's broader energy future.” The project not only aims to reduce emissions but also provides a practical demonstration of how electric vehicles can coexist with existing energy frameworks.

As the Jeffco Public Schools fleet transitions to these electric alternatives, the impact is expected to resonate beyond the student population. Cleaner air around schools and reduction in fossil fuel dependence mark significant strides toward improving community health standards.

About the Partners

Jeffco Public Schools serves approximately 75,000 students and maintains a diverse and high-performing educational system. With a strategic focus on sustainability, the district looks forward to enhancing educational experiences alongside environmental stewardship.

Xcel Energy, a leading energy provider, is committed to supporting the transition to a clean energy future while maintaining reliable service to millions of customers. Highland Electric Fleets has established itself as a front-runner in providing Electrification-as-a-Service solutions for school districts and municipalities, paving the way for a greener future.

This collaborative project underscores the potential of partnerships to drive significant change in the education sector, fostering sustainable practices that can yield lasting benefits for future generations.