ENGIE NA Delivers New Microgrid for San Marcos Schools’ Electric Fleet
The San Marcos Unified School District in California has unveiled upgrades to its transportation center, including a new microgrid, to support its district-wide electrification and sustainability efforts.
The district recently added 33 electric buses (eBuses), transitioning nearly 40% of its 84 buses to electric. The modernized transportation center includes 40 eBus charging stations and infrastructure for an additional 35 chargers to be added as the district's electric fleet expands.
The depot also features a solar and energy storage microgrid designed by ENGIE North America, a Houston-based low-carbon energy and services provider and division of the French-based global energy firm. The solar installation will expand as more of the district’s buses are replaced with electric models.
The district will leverage the microgrid’s batteries to discharge power when grid prices are high, mitigating fleet charging costs. The microgrid will also provide backup power during grid outages or the public safety power shutoffs common to the district, which is located roughly 40 miles north of San Diego.
In addition to the on-site solar array and battery system, a backup generator is connected to the microgrid should additional power be needed.
A number of other California school districts have invested in microgrids in recent years, including the Santa Barbara Unified School District, which also contracted with ENGIE Services US for 14 solar facilities, including six solar microgrids.
In 2023, a coalition of local education agencies in Illinois were awarded funds from the Department of Energy to build microgrids in 20 different school districts.
Other energy efficiency initiatives on deck
In addition to the new eBuses and upgraded transportation center, the San Marcos school district is partnering with ENGIE North America on several other initiatives designed to reduce the district’s energy costs and carbon emissions.
“Across the district, LED lighting retrofits at 19 sites will significantly cut energy costs,” said Courtney Jenkins, vice president of energy solutions at ENGIE North America.
A total of 8,000 kWh of solar will be installed at three district locations, including the transportation center. One other site is slated to receive a battery energy storage system.
All told, the district expects its electrification and efficiency efforts will net $40 million in energy savings over the term of its contract with ENGIE, according to projections.
State and federal funding secured
San Marcos Unified School District is leveraging both state and federal funding to pay for its electrification projects. The district expects to receive $3.5 million in Inflation Reduction Act funds, as well as $1.75 million in local grants and rebates for the EV infrastructure and $11.5 million in grants and incentives for the purchase of 40 eBuses.
“This project not only advances our sustainability goals but also enhances the learning environment for our students by ensuring that our resources are used effectively and responsibly,” said Andy Johnsen, superintendent of the district.
