Potomac Edison Pilot Program to Help Maryland Schools Transition to Clean, Electric Buses

Core Viewpoint - Potomac Edison, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp, has received approval to launch a pilot program aimed at facilitating the transition of Maryland school systems to zero-emission electric buses, addressing financial barriers and supporting cleaner transportation for students [1][2][3]. Group 1: Program Details - The pilot program will cost $11.1 million and is set to launch in early 2026, running for five years or until funds are exhausted [4]. - The program will cover the cost difference of approximately $250,000 between diesel and electric buses, as well as the costs for charging equipment and necessary electrical upgrades [2][4]. - Potomac Edison will provide full technical and administrative support to assist school systems in identifying charging locations, installing equipment, and training personnel on vehicle operation and charging [7]. Group 2: Environmental and Technological Impact - The initiative aligns with Maryland's Climate Solutions Now Act of 2022, which mandates public school systems to purchase or contract only zero-emission vehicles [2]. - The program will explore vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, allowing stored energy in bus batteries to flow back to the grid when buses are not in use, potentially enhancing grid reliability during emergencies [3][7]. Group 3: Company Background - FirstEnergy Corp operates one of the largest investor-owned electric systems in the U.S., serving over six million customers across multiple states, including Maryland [5]. - Potomac Edison serves approximately 285,000 customers in various counties in Maryland, indicating a significant local impact of the program [4].