Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick celebrated the launch of a new fully-electric transit bus fleet at the Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA). Gov. Patrick also announced new investments in two programs designed to support alternative fuel vehicles and related infrastructure across Massachusetts.

“We are committed to using innovative strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, bolster our energy independence and grow our clean energy economy,” said Gov. Patrick. “The WRTA’s new fleet is an example of how we are accelerating the adoption of cleaner vehicles throughout Massachusetts to reduce harmful pollutants and promote a more sustainable environment for future generations.”

The WRTA purchased six Proterra plug-in, all-electric buses with more than $7 million in federal funds and matching state funds from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. The buses represent the largest fleet of Proterra all-electric buses in the nation.

Gov. Patrick also announced a new initiative, the Massachusetts Offers Rebates for Electric Vehicles program, which will provide rebates of up to $2,500 for plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles.

All residents of the Commonwealth are eligible to receive incentives on vehicles registered in Massachusetts; these incentives will be funded with $2 million in Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative auction proceeds.

Governor Patrick also awarded nearly $600,000 in Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Incentive Program (MassEVIP) grants to 16 municipalities, two public universities and colleges and one state agency for the acquisition of plug-in hybrid or battery-electric vehicles and the installation of Level 2 charging stations.

This is the second round of grant awards through MassEVIP since its launch last year.