Bus operators in Scotland have already invested over £130m in zero emissions vehicles, and with that figure set to increase as diesel models are phased out, it is vital that the electricity infrastructure is able to meet the demands of growing transport fleets.
The Pathway, which has been co-created by leaders from the energy, transport, manufacturing and finance sectors in partnership with the Scottish Government, sets out a collaborative route to achieving zero-emissions, ending the bus sector's contribution to climate change.
Given the criticality of the electricity distribution network in achieving this aim, SSEN takes a proactive role in supporting Scotland's decarbonisation ambitions, and its role in the Taskforce has driven tangible action on the road to net zero.
SSEN is now working with nine major bus operators in its network area to progress the connections of strategic charging infrastructure, with projects totalling over 15 Mega Volt Amperes (MVA), or approximately 250 chargers, progressing through the design or delivery stage. This includes bus decarbonisation programmes in all cities in the north of Scotland as well as rural services.
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One of the projects supported the first phase of charging infrastructure for Xplore Dundee's zero emission ambitions; investing in the network to enable the installation of 6 x 120kW ultra-rapid chargers to keep 12 'Electric Emerald' fully electric double decker buses running on Dundee's roads.
SSEN has secured a further £3m of strategic network investment through Ofgem's Green Recovery Programme to unlock an additional 12.8MW of network capacity to support the second phase next year. This investment, including the replacement of two transformers and 0.3km of cabling at SSEN's substation in Constable Street, will progress further fleet electrification in line with Xplore Dundee's Mission Zero programme.
Working in collaboration through the Taskforce has also been vital to support the creation of the UK's first Fleet Decarbonisation guide, partnering with SP Energy Networks. Designed as a useful 'how to get started' tool and providing an overview of the engagement, design and connections processes, the guide is promoted widely with dedicated pre-application meetings now offered to bus operators as standard.
The development of the guide has driven closer links with major bus operators across Scotland, with webinars held with fleet operators. This targeted engagement will continue as part of the pathway with additional focus given to smaller operators exploring decarbonisation options.
Chris Burchell, Managing Director of SSEN Distribution, said: "We're delighted to play an active role in co-creating Scotland's Pathway to Zero Emission Buses, bringing network operators, industry and government together to realise Scotland's vision for a zero-emission bus sector.
"The creation of the taskforce has given targeted focus to this critical element in the decarbonisation of transport and highlighted the importance of strategic investment in our electricity networks and ongoing collaboration. We will now play a proactive role in ensuring the success of the Pathway so that our network continues to be an enabler, rather than a constraint, to Scotland's net zero ambitions."
