Enid board approves no-cost CNG conversions for district buses, citing modest immediate savings

The Enid Public Schools Board voted unanimously to approve a memorandum of agreement with Green Energy Solutions to install compressed natural gas (CNG) supplemental systems on the district's buses at no cost to the district. The board's approval came after a presentation from the superintendent and the district finance lead outlining expected fuel savings and how the conversion would be funded.

"This will be a 0 cost unit public schools," Superintendent Doctor Darrow said while describing the memorandum of agreement and the expected minimal estimated savings of $36,000. Finance presenter Doctor Robinson (Sam) told the board he used a conservative estimate to avoid overpromising: "I did the bare minimal of savings," he said, noting that actual savings could be higher in practice.

Board discussion covered technical and operational details. Presenters said the conversion adds a CNG tank bolted inside the chassis and connects a line into the diesel fuel line with a control that can set the fuel mix; the company recommended a approximately 70% CNG and 30% diesel blend. Doctor Robinson said the equipment is funded through a state program tied to a Volkswagen EPA settlement grant, and the company applies for the grant tax credits that fund the installation.

Officials described the scope: district staff said the plan covers about 28 yellow buses and six white charter buses, with conversions scheduled for low-utilization times such as the Christmas break for charters. The district reported a three-year term to retain equipment (including warranty coverage) and said other school districts provided generally positive reviews of the approach.

Board members asked about tank size, maintenance and resale. Doctor Robinson said tanks take up underframe storage space and that the company bolts tanks to the frame, adding, "Normal maintenance" should suffice and the conversion comes with a three-year warranty. Regarding resale, he said a valve can be closed and diesel used if a converted bus is sold, though the buyer would be buying the bus with the conversion equipment.

The motion to approve was made, seconded and carried by a unanimous vote of the members present: Matt Lohman, Joe Blackwood, Randy Long, Kim Tinius, Tory Turnbull and Chad Mance. Superintendent Darrow said the district would monitor results and provide updates.

The approval authorizes entering the MOA with Green Energy Solutions; the board did not appropriate district funds for the equipment itself, which presenters said would be funded via grant credits to the vendor.