Phillips Energy Featured in National Case Study on the Positive Impacts of Propane-Powered School Buses
Phillips Energy was recently featured in a national case study highlighting the significant environmental and operational benefits of propane-powered school buses. In the study, Phillips Energy provided a real-world example of the impact that clean-burning propane can have on school fleets and their communities such as Newport News, Virginia.
Co-authored by Blue Bird Corporation and ROUSH CleanTech, the case study presents detailed findings on the economic and environmental benefits of integrating propane into school transportation. Key data points include reduced greenhouse gas emissions, lower fuel costs and improved air quality.
Phillips Energy’s involvement in fueling propane school buses was instrumental to the research, showing how local school districts have saved money, reduced maintenance and enhanced environmental responsibility by choosing this alternative fuel.
The case study focused on Newport News Public Schools, an urban school district in Hampton Roads, Virginia that has saved an estimated $2 million in fuel and parts expenses since switching to propane-fueled buses over six years ago. Additional savings were realized through a $0.37 per-gallon propane Autogas rebate offered between 2018 and 2024. Besides the significant fuel savings and tax credits, Newport News received more than $1.7 million in incentives for operating propane school buses.
“While much has been written about the shift to electric vehicles, there is also a very compelling story that also needs to be told about propane’s place in an all-of-the-above approach to alternative energy,” said John Phillips, President of Phillips Energy. “Being part of this national case study with Blue Bird and ROUSH CleanTech validates the work we do to support clean, sustainable energy solutions with the infrastructure in place to deliver real value today.”
Recognized in 2010 as the first private business in Virginia to offer three alternative fuels at once, Phillips Energy has long championed the use of alternative fuels, and it actively assists school districts in securing the infrastructure needed to fuel propane-powered buses safely and efficiently. The case study underscores the company’s role in equipping schools to reap the benefits of propane technology, illustrating how districts across the country can improve air quality for students while making cost-effective choices.
The findings come at a critical time as school districts face increasing pressure to reduce their environmental impact. As this case study demonstrates, switching to propane is a scalable, impactful solution that schools can implement to meet these challenges.
To read the full case study and learn more about Phillips Energy’s involvement, please visit the Blue Bird Corporation website.
