PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WPRI) — Five school districts in Rhode Island will be getting 45 new electric school buses through millions of dollars in federal funding. The nearly $12.4 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Clean School Bus Program is giving students in Pawtucket, Lincoln, Westerly, Jamestown and Providence a more efficient ride to and from school every day. Pawtucket is receiving 22 of the 45 buses. "Electric school buses offer a cleaner, quieter and more efficient alternative to traditional buses by eliminating harmful emissions," Pawtucket Superintendent Patricia Royal said. RELATED: Providence rolls out its first electric school buses U.S. Sen. Jack Reed said providing the dozens of new buses will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save money, and limit air and noise pollution in their communities. "This is also going to contribute to trying to control climate change, which we're seeing is now devastating across the country, so this is a win-win both in terms of economics and environment," he said. Air pollution from older diesel bus engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that can harm students' health and cause them to miss school. The goal of the Clean School Bus Program is to also save the school districts money in the long run. NEXT: Commission votes to move forward with McCoy Stadium demolition Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW