Scottish bus operator First Bus has launched a UK-first smart charging trial that aims to use its electric bus depots to help balance the country’s electricity system by adjusting when buses charge.
The trial, which is being delivered in partnership with Optimo Energy – a London based software firm – was kicked off at the First Bus depot in Glasgow, Scotland, and will soon extend to the Great Yarmouth depot in Norfolk later in the spring.
As part of the trial, First Bus will adjust when its electric buses recharge – charging and increasing demand when there is excess renewable energy on the system, particularly wind power in Scotland, and avoiding charging, thus reducing demand during busy peak periods.
By flexing when its buses charge, the trial will help to reduce the need to curtail renewable energy generation and support a more efficient and flexible energy network.
“Electric buses are already transforming public transport, but this trial shows that they have the ability to go even further: playing an active role in the UK’s energy system,” said Isabel McAllister, chief sustainability officer for First Bus.
“We’ve built significant electric capacity across our depots, and the next step is using it more intelligently. By charging when the grid needs us to, we can help reduce wasted renewable energy, support system stability and improve the overall economics of electrification.”
First Bus aims to operate a fully zero-emission commercial bus fleet by 2035, and has already deployed over 1400 zero-emission vehicles, accounting for approximately a quarter of its fleet – one of the UK’s largest bus fleets. First Bus has also committed to developing 20 electric depots across the UK, with several due to be completed by the end of the year.
In an additional effort to extend its influence and share its expertise, First Bus has also opened up its depot-based charging infrastructure to third-parties via its First Charge offering.
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Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.