First Bus is to invest £2.5 million in installing more than 6000 solar panels across 20 of its depots across the UK as part of its net-zero strategy.
The solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, which will be in place by mid-June, will generate more than 2 million kWh per year – enough to power 700 family homes.
The move forms part of First Bus’s ambitions to carry out its operations with net-zero emissions by 2050 or earlier. This is in addition to its aim of achieving a zero-emission bus fleet by 2035.
The panels would not only reduce costs but enable the 20 sites to generate their own renewable power for lighting, heating, office equipment and engineering bays without drawing power from the national grid.
Jon Tivey, Head of Environment for First Bus UK, says: “We are delighted to announce the rollout of our solar PV programme across the UK, which will help us to significantly reduce our carbon emissions across 20 sites.
“This is yet another milestone in our transition to a low-carbon future across every aspect of our operations. As one of the largest bus operators in the UK, it’s important that we lead the way in the industry and set an example for others to follow.”
Manchester-based solar PV suppliers CorEnergy UK is already carrying out installation on some sites.
CorEnergy Managing Director, Tom Griffin, says: “CorEnergy is pleased to be supporting the ambitious net-zero targets committed by First Bus, having been awarded the design and installation of an exciting renewable energy project to introduce solar PV solutions to 20 sites across the UK.
“In a time where all businesses are striving for carbon neutrality, this successful solar PV project will play a significant role in supporting First Bus to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meet ongoing net-zero objectives.”
The depots which will have solar panels fitted by June are:
- Blantyre
- Bridgewater
- Bradford, Bowling Back Lane
- Bristol Bus station
- Cambourne
- Chelmsford
- Great Yarmouth
- Haven Road, Colchester
- Huddersfield, Old Fieldhouse Lane
- Leeds, Hunslet Park
- York, James Street
- Aberdeen, King Street
- Leicester
- Swansea, Ravenhill
- Norwich, Roundtree Way
- Scotstoun
- Summercourt, Newquay
- Truro
- Bath, Weston Island
- Weymouth
