A propane school bus is about to be fueled.


CNG technology was new and still often problematic at that time. But 25%


of propane school bus customers said they’re


concerned about availability over the next couple of years.


(Out of 16 responses.)


CNG buses became more desirable starting around 2007, as EPA mandates took effect to reduce diesel emissions, and CNG technology improved, with Cummins dominating the engine market. Today, Jordan School District sees significant per-mile savings on its CNG buses compared to diesel, thanks in part to federal alternate fuel tax credits. Between January and March 2023, for example, the district paid a gas- oline gallon equivalent (GGE) of $1.34 per mile, similar to or cheaper than diesel. But the tax credit added up to $131,219, meaning a total savings of about $7,500 per bus per year compared to diesel. “CNG is a natural resource in the state of Utah, and bus drivers love driv- ing CNG buses,” Bergera commented. The district has purchased CNG buses with the support of its Board of


Education, and grants from the Volkswagen settlement and the federal Diesel Emissions Reduction Act program. Few new CNG buses are on the market today, but Bergera said he hopes that changes. “I’m anxious to add more CNG buses once they start manufacturing them again,” Bergera concluded.


The Bottom Line School buses don’t drive nearly as many miles as many public transit buses, delivery vehicles or long-haul trucks. Hence, per-mile savings


A comparison of fuel properties prepared by the U.S. Department of Energy: stnonline.com/go/i4


60 School Transportation News • MARCH 2024


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