15 Journeo real-time bus stop displays that are solar powered have been installed in remote communities in the Scottish Borders Council area.
They utilise Journeo’s e-paper technology and have significantly reduced cost of installation compared to cabled units, the supplier notes. That saving has come via the lack of civils work required and removal of ongoing costs of grid electricity to power them.
Maintenance requirements of the displays are “minimal” and power draw is low, which Journeo says is important in order to maintain functionality during periods of low ambient sunlight.
Scottish Borders Council has been a client of Journeo for over five years. The latest project is being funded by Scotland’s Community Bus Fund.
The displays form part of the local authority’s long-term strategy to improve the bus passenger experience by providing accurate and timely travel information in rural locations and increasing the number of real-time displays at stops.
Speaking about the work, Scottish Borders Council Localities’ Transport Officer Dan Cathcart says: “These innovative displays from Journeo have extremely low power and data requirements. They can be easily fitted to existing poles, and are quickly up and running.
“We do not have to close roads or fund roadworks to lay new power cables. But the big winners are our customers in rural communities, where they will benefit from more consistent information about their bus services.”
Adds Journeo Group Sales Manager Ted Beatson: “The most costly and time-consuming challenge for a local transport authority rolling out real-time information is the need for power infrastructure to be in place.
“If it is not, it is extremely costly and disruptive to carry out the necessary works. Our e-paper displays are ideal in situations where complicated and costly works need to be avoided. Using our self-sustained units, which fit quickly to existing poles, need no power connection, and are proven to work in the region, is a win-win for the council and the community.”
