Charlottetown, Canada secures $22.7 million investment for electric and diesel bus fleet expansion
Source：cbc.ca
From：Taiwan Trade Center, Toronto
Update Time：2023/12/29
Charlottetown's T3 Transit is set to receive a significant boost in its mission toward eco-friendly public transportation. The transit agency will benefit from a $22.7 million investment. This funding will primarily support the expansion of its bus depot and the acquisition of new electric and diesel buses.
A significant portion of this financial infusion will be directed towards enhancing the depot's capabilities to accommodate electric buses, with plans to provide storage for up to 19 of these eco-conscious vehicles. In addition to this, the transit facility will be equipped with four electric vehicle charging stations, reinforcing Charlottetown's commitment to sustainable transit infrastructure.
At the core of this ambitious project is the installation of a cutting-edge 400kWh Solar Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). This innovative technology will play a pivotal role in stabilizing energy demand during electric bus charging, leading to reduced utility costs and a more sustainable operation. Furthermore, the new facility will feature four electric vehicle chargers, reinforcing the commitment to eco-friendly public transit infrastructure.
The remaining portion of the funding will be allocated for the purchase of seven electric buses and three diesel buses, further diversifying the transit fleet.
Charlottetown Mayor Philip Brown emphasized the positive impacts of this investment, which extend beyond cleaner transport. The initiative also plays a vital role in mitigating climate change, reducing the region's carbon footprint, and lessening the strain on existing infrastructure.
The federal government is a major contributor to this initiative, allocating $9.1 million toward the facility expansion and the acquisition of new buses. The provincial government of Prince Edward Island is set to invest nearly $7.6 million, while Charlottetown itself will provide $3 million for the facility. Additionally, a joint contribution of $3 million from the city and the neighboring towns of Stratford and Cornwall will support the procurement of new buses.
T3 Transit owner Mike Cassidy anticipates a gradual transition to electric buses, with the facility's completion expected by late 2026. The company envisions introducing two to three new electric buses each year until all 19 buses are in service, projecting a full transition between 2026 and 2031.
This transformation aligns with the company's commitment to providing sustainable transportation solutions, ensuring that public transit remains an accessible and environmentally responsible mode of commuting for the residents of Charlottetown and the surrounding region.
Source: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/pei-transit-electric-buses-facility-expansion-2023-1.6925268