Zero Emissions Vehicles

At Boston University, Zero Emission Vehicles are an important tool to help reduce the University’s dependency on fossil fuels. In 2024, BU’s electric vehicle fleet grew as well as the University’s charging infrastructure. Some highlights include:

  • Agganis Arena welcomed two new electric-powered ice resurfacers. These EV ice resurfacers are quieter than their gas-powered predecessors, improve air quality in the arena, and reduce noise pollution for spectators, players, and workers. They went into operation in advance of the 2024-2025 hockey seasons, and each ice resurfacer has its own dedicated charger. Additionally, Agganis Arena added an electric forklift to assist in daily arena operations.
  • The BU Police Department brought on a Mustang Mach E, which is an all-black unmarked cruiser fully equipped with emergency lights and sirens. The cruiser is being used by command staff members when they are on call and throughout the day.
  • Two fleet-only charging ports were added at 143 Essex Street to help ensure BU-owned vehicles can be ready to hit the road.
  • Both BU Information Services & Technology and Mail Services received Ford eTransit cargo vans to assist in their campus operations.

Energy Efficiency Projects on Campus

For the past three years, Boston University has been working to improve energy efficiency at the Center for Advanced Biomedical Research facility, at 700 Albany Street. Construction for this project began in 2024, and the mechanical systems were installed and substantially completed by the end of the year. This project included replacing the majority of the HVAC systems. The air handling systems were replaced with energy recovery units used to pre-condition incoming air. A steam to hot water conversion for heating domestic and non-potable water systems was also completed. This enables future decarbonization investments in the building. BU’s Campus Planning & Operations completed the project in 2025.

In 2024, there were 13 LED lighting upgrades done on campus, totaling 2.34 million kWh of electricity savings for the University, which is roughly as much electricity used at the George Sherman Union or Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine annually. In addition to these LED upgrades, two kitchen exhaust control projects were completed at the West Campus Dining Hall and the Florence and Chafetz Hillel House Dining Hall.

Biking Goes Electric

With Boston University’s dense urban campus extending 1.3 miles along Commonwealth Avenue, it can often be hard and impractical for transportation services staff to drive from one end of campus to another, especially on short notice. This year, BU Transportation Services brought on two Haul ST ebikes. These bikes are used to help Transportation Services staff move around campus quickly while reducing transportation emissions. Additionally, Dr. Gilliam has a Gazelle Arroyo C7 e-bike for her to use around campus.