Local e-bus transport operated by localy produced, stored and used renewable energy
About this good practice
Problem addressed:
E-bus public transport in Pécs is a step ahead for environment and climate friendly operation of the Tüke Busz Plc. This could be further enhanced by using local renewable energy for operation of e-bus fleet and the local public transport organisation (PTO), too.
Reaching of objectives, implementation:
The electric energy provided comes from the 10 MW built-in capacity photovoltaic power plant owned by the Municipality of Pécs City, for operating the e-buses and for provision of electricity in e-bus related PTO buildings. Also, the biomass fuelled local thermal power plant heats the management offices, e-bus depots, etc. used. These two power plants provide for a green operation of the PTO in terms of its 10 e-buses.
As for future development plans, the availability of green, clean source of local energy provides significant level of freedom to identify optional e-bus fleet development options (en-route charging, mixed charging, effective heating-cooling of e-buses, etc.).
The establishment of the e-bus network itself, the operation of the e-bus fleet and investing in building service-maintenance facilities require significant amount of up-front investments. The cheap, locally produced and stored energy makes the whole business case more sustainable and greener at the same time.
Main stakeholders and beneficiaries:
Main beneficiary: Tüke Busz Plc., main stakeholders: municipality of Pécs, Tüke Busz Plc. passengers, Pécs District Heating Ltd.
Resources needed
The Good Practice does not require dedicated financial resources given that the photovoltaic power plant and the biomass powered thermal power plant are already operating investments. What necessary is the coordination with the local municipality and the public supply providers by the PTO staff.
Evidence of success
Why is this practice considered as good?
Locally produced, locally stored and locally used renewable energy providers for the electricity supply of e-buses and for heating needs of the depot, and further PTO buildings. This energy provision favours low-carbon and sustainable energy management of the cities concerned.
Factual evidence demonstrating the success or failure.
Green Strategy of Tüke Busz Plc. by the use electric buses counts with less air, noise pollution, emission of particles, et
Potential for learning or transfer
The eBussed project, in connection with the deployment of e-buses, also emphasises the low-carbon, climate friendly operation of the city/region where e-buses are in service. The higher level of savings in pollutants can be also ensured by using locally produced, stored and used renewable energy sources. This makes the Good Practice potentially interesting for other regions, although the transfer of the Pécs practice has not been done yet.
Good practice owner
South Transdanubian Regional Innovation Agency Nonprofit Ltd.