In celebration of Earth Day, the Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority (COMET) launched its new zero-emission buses into service on Monday. The initiative represents a significant leap towards sustainable public transportation in Midlands, South Carolina. The project, funded by a $2.9 million Federal Transit Administration grant, features two battery-electric and two hydrogen fuel cell buses. While currently in pilot service, the buses are set to operate on daily routes by May. Executive director and CEO of The COMET, Maurice Pearl, highlighted the deployment as a substantial achievement in transitioning to a more environmentally friendly fleet. The introduction of these new vehicles is aimed at reducing emissions, with the potential to eliminate up to 540 tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually. The battery-electric buses can travel up to 254 miles per charge and feature fast-charging capabilities, while the hydrogen fuel cell buses can run up to 370 miles on a single refill, emitting only water vapor. This initiative is part of The COMET's broader strategy to modernize its fleet and contribute to a greener environment. The COMET currently serves Richland and Lexington counties with 34 fixed routes, catering to more than 1.8 million passenger trips each year.