Kempower launches innovative charging system for electric school buses in Canada

Chargers provider Kempower announces it is partnering with the Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB) in Quebec, Canada, and Quebec-based charging solution provider Bornes Quebec to launch an innovative electric vehicle (EV) charging system. The charging site for school buses began operations in 2024.

The Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB) in Quebec, Canada is one of the first charging sites for school bus fleets that Kempower commissioned in North America. The charging site includes Kempower’s cloud-based ChargEye charging management software, allowing ETSB to control and plan charging operations, while generating reports to validate 100 percent of potential carbon credits, as Kempower states

Kempower launches charging system in Canada

The providers adds that “a standout feature of the Kempower system is its ability to identify fleet buses at plug-in, eliminating the need for a gated security system. This functionality also opens the door to transforming the site into a public charging station during times of school bus inactivity, such as summer breaks, holidays, and after hours—a business model gaining traction among electric school bus fleet operators”.

The Eastern Townships School Board’s site currently operates a fleet of 30 electric school buses, supported by three chargers, six double satellites, two single satellites, and 14 charging plugs. The site contributes to ETSB’s broader fleet of 77 school buses, which is now 39 percent electrified, with a target of 65 percent by 2030. 

Bruce Banfill, Assistant Director of Transportation at Eastern Townships School Board, commented: “We’re thrilled about the capabilities of the Kempower charging solution and the potential this partnership holds. “The versatility of Kempower chargers helps us in our operations and reduces operational costs.” 

Pascal Flambard, Head of Business Development Canada at Kempower, stated: “Our chargers offer unmatched reliability for the Eastern Townships School Board, ensuring its fleet has the power it needs to operate efficiently, all while being a cost-effective solution that delivers long-term value,” 

Yves Chabot, Business Development Consultant at Bornes Quebec, added: “Partnering with Kempower enabled us to deliver the highest quality, scalable charging system for the Eastern Townships project. Their system is proven and provides convenient charging for the customer.”