In partnership with our Clean Diesel Program, we awarded grants to two Washington fire departments to help replace two diesel fire trucks with electric models. Among the first in the country, these vehicles will improve air quality and reduce operating noise, while helping firefighters respond to emergencies in their communities.
In 2021, Governor Jay Inslee announced zero-emission vehicle targets for state fleets, which set a goal for at least 40% of all state government passenger vehicles to be zero emissions by 2025. Ecology has grants in place with four state agencies to add more than 100 electric vehicles to the state fleet. This will reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and save maintenance and fuel costs for the state.
We have awarded grants to 22 school districts in 14 counties statewide for the purchase of 40 all-electric school buses. Each award helped cover the cost difference between a diesel school bus and an all-electric school bus, including the necessary charging infrastructure. Unlike school buses powered by diesel or propane, electric school buses do not have tailpipe emissions. This effort is increasing public awareness and confidence in zero-emission vehicle technology and improving air quality for more than 3,000 student passengers every day!
Ecology has grants in place with seven transit agencies to purchase 66 all-electric transit buses in Benton, Clark, Franklin, King, Lewis, Pierce, Snohomish, and Spokane counties. Grants were awarded under both the state penalty and federal settlement. These projects provide zero-emission public transportation options, reducing harmful emissions and improving the transit experience for drivers, passengers, and communities.