First Bus and Centrica collaborate
Bus operator First Bus and energy firm Centrica have announced a major new partnership for rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at bus depots nationwide.
The new deal sees Centrica join the ranks of Openreach, DPD and Police Scotland, plugging into this shared infrastructure initiative from First Bus.
The initial phase will enable Centrica to charge a selection of its EV fleet at First Bus’ Leicester depot while buses are out on the road in service. The partnership then has the potential to extend to further depots across the bus operator’s UK infrastructure in the future, it said.
First Bus is harnessing its EV infrastructure to help support local communities and businesses to reach their environmental aspirations, aligning with the commitment to achieve a zero-emission bus fleet by 2035.
The partnership was launched at First Bus’ Leicester depot with a visit from Department for Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood MP (pictured), who joined representatives from First Bus and Centrica to highlight the critical role the electric vehicle infrastructure will play in reducing emissions and promoting sustainable transport.
Centrica currently has more than 3000 electric vehicles in its fleet but is aiming to convert all its diesel vehicles to zero-emissions by 2030.
Faizan Ahmad, Decarbonisation Programme Director at First Bus, said:
“We’re excited about this collaboration, showcasing the power of teamwork to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality in the communities we serve. The shift to electric is a journey for businesses nationwide, and we are offering a smart, community-friendly solution that’s simple, effective and benefits everyone.”
Rob Simister, Director of Fleet Operations at Centrica, said:
“Our engineers carry out important work for our customers up and down the country every single day, and it’s their vehicles that get them where they need to be. As we continue to electrify our fleet, we’re always looking for innovative ways to address some of the operational challenges that comes with such a large transition. This partnership with First Bus will mean we’re more effective at getting to our customers, while speeding up the rollout of our electric vehicles. That’s good news for the country, our colleagues, and our customers.”
Image courtesy of First Bus
