What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of the future of zero-emissions transit in suburban Maryland?

Pros:
1. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions, leading to a cleaner environment. 2. Improved air quality in suburban Maryland, benefiting public health. 3. Decreased reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to energy independence.
4. Potential cost savings in the long run due to lower fuel and maintenance expenses.
5. Technological advancements in zero-emission transit can stimulate economic growth and innovation.

Cons:
1. Initial high costs associated with implementing and maintaining zero-emission transit infrastructure.
2. Limited availability and range of zero-emission vehicles, which may require additional charging or refueling infrastructure.
3. Inadequate charging or refueling infrastructure could potentially lead to longer wait times and inconvenience for commuters.
4. Transitioning to zero-emission transit may require workforce retraining and job displacement in the transportation sector.
5. Uncertainty surrounding the availability and scalability of green hydrogen technology for powering buses.

Remember, these lists are merely an overview and there may be other factors to consider when evaluating the future of zero-emissions transit in suburban Maryland.

context: https://www.businessinsider.com/clean-zero-emission-bus-transit-montgomery-county-maryland-2023-11

Montgomery County, Maryland, plans to achieve zero-emission transit in the near future. To achieve this goal, the county is constructing microgrids equipped with solar panels, battery storage, and eventually green hydrogen. These microgrids will power the county’s buses, ensuring a sustainable and eco-friendly transportation system by 2035.