Canadian Government announces $2.75bn for zero emission buses

Canadian Government announces $2.75bn for zero emission buses

The Canadian Government has launched a $2.75bn zero emission transit fund to support the rollout of zero emission buses, such as those powered by hydrogen, to decarbonise public transit and school transportation in the country.

Announced by Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, the five-year programme will support the rollout of fast, clean and affordable transport as part of Canada’s journey to net zero emissions – as set out in the Hydrogen Strategy released in December.

The funds are part of a wider $14.9bn federal investment in public transit which will run for eight years and will support municipalities, transit authorities and school board as they transition to or expand the electrification of their bus fleets.

Both initiatives support the government’s goal to purchase 5,000 zero emissions buses over the next five years.

On the funding, Minister McKenna, said, “Ensuring that Canadians can enjoy cleaner air, quieter streets and a planet safe for our kids, while tackling climate change, creating good jobs and opportunities for Canadian manufacturers – that’s the goal of our investment in zero emission buses across Canada.

“Today’s announcement is another step forward for smart public transit funding that delivers triple bottom line results: jobs and economic growth, a cleaner environment and more inclusive communities.”

Further to the commitments formalised by government, the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) has said it will invest $1.5bn in zero emission buses through its three-year growth plans. To date, CIB has said it will support the purchases of buses in Brampton, Ottawa and Edmonton, as well as in British Columbia.

Ehren Cory, CEO of CIB, added, “The CIB is pleased to support economic growth and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The combination of our Zero-Emission Bus Lending Programme, and the Department of Infrastructure’s new zero emission transit fund, will enable large-scale expansions of zero-emission fleets and supporting charging and maintenance infrastructure across Canada and provide cleaner public transportation for generations to come.

“The CIB will continue making investments which improve the quality of life for Canadians and support more sustainable communities.”