A federal investment of more than C$83,000 (US$62,930) was granted to support planning activities for a transition to zero-emission buses in Orangeville, Ontario.
"Reducing carbon emissions is an urgent priority to protect our environment and Canadians. By investing in the development of zero-emission public transit plans at the community level, we are supporting a cleaner, more prosperous future for all." said Member of Parliament for Brampton North Ruby Sahota, "The government of Canada will continue to work with partners like the town of Orangeville to ensure no one is left behind as we strive towards a net-zero economy by 2050."
The investment will help to develop a transit fleet electrification transition plan, which will inform the procurement of electric buses and charging infrastructure. Studies conducted through the project will result in a comprehensive report that will guide Orangeville's investments and decision-making regarding the implementation of a zero-emission transit fleet.
The government of Canada is investing more than C$83,000 (US$63,000) in the project through the Zero Emission Transit Fund (ZETF). The town of Orangeville is investing more than C$34,000 (US$25,779).
This fund is closely coordinated with the Canada Infrastructure Bank's (CIB) Zero Emission Bus Initiative, through which the CIB has committed more than C$1.5 billion (US$1.14 billion) to supporting the deployment of zero-emission buses.
"Transportation is the town of Orangeville's largest contributing sector to community GHG emissions. This study will outline a step-by-step process that council can consider as a means to replace transit buses with battery electric vehicles after the lease of the new, smaller on-demand buses is completed in 2028. Shifting away from fossil fuel engines, towards zero-emission alternatives, presents an opportunity for significant GHG emission reductions and is a step closer to the town's goal of reaching net-zero by 2050," said Mayor of Orangeville Lisa Post.
The Scoop on the ZETF
The ZETF complements Canada's strengthened climate plan: A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy. The plan commits the government of Canada to provide permanent federal funding for public transit in support of making clean and affordable transportation options available in every community.
Funds from the ZETF help communities transition to zero emission transit to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to Canada's net-zero emissions targets. By electrifying their bus fleets, communities are working toward a cleaner environment while creating jobs and supporting Canadian manufacturing.
The ZETF is accepting applications under the Planning and Capital streams. Eligible applicants can seek funding to help cover planning and capital costs related to electrifying public transit systems, including the purchase of zero-emission buses and related infrastructure.
