SP Energy Networks (SPEN), Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Distribution and Zenobē have produced new guidance on how fleet operators can switch to electric.
The three worked collaboratively through Scotland’s Bus Decarbonisation Taskforce to produce the guidance, which focuses on how fleet operators can make informed technology choices and work with their network operator.
Zenobē has published a guide to electric vehicle (EV) batteries and battery performance, while the two distribution network operators (DNOs) have produced a guide offering an overview of the engagement, design and connections processes for working with local network operators to enable the charging infrastructure required.
Steven Meersman, co-founder and director of Zenobē said: “We hope that with our guide we can remove some of the mystique and make clear the many options that exist to make electrification easier and more cost effective without having to compromise on your operational needs.
“The decision to transition fleets to electric can be daunting with many decisions to be made ranging from grid supply and on-site storage to charger speeds, vehicle type, route and schedule. These all need to come together, with decisions in one area impacting the other for years to come.”
Zenobē recently established a multi-source debt structure of £241 million to fund capital investment into e-buses and charging infrastructure.
Zenobē launched its fleet electrification offering in May 2019, which includes financing for charging infrastructure, stationary battery storage located in bus depots for overcoming grid constraints, batteries on the vehicles and the vehicles themselves.
Earlier this month, it signed the UK’s largest single EV bus fleet transaction, an electric transportation as a service deal with National Express.
More information on the new guides can be found through a webinar hosted by SPEN and SSEN on 23 March 2022.