Duke Energy has offered a grant to Greensboro Transportation Administration to convert its fleet of 47 diesel buses to all-electric vehicles.
The transition is planned to take place over the next 10 years, the transition coming via $4.5 million in voter-approved bonds and federal funds as Greensboro replaces its buses as they exceed their useful life expectancy of 12 years or 500,000 miles.
The project got a shot in the arm this week when Duke Energy presented Greensboro’s Department of Transportation $450,000 to purchase an electric charging station for city buses. The check was presented Tuesday.
The grant will allow the city’s department of transportation to purchase a rapid charging station for the Douglas Galyon Depot. One rapid recharging station can replenish a bus battery array in seven to 10 minutes, the charge allowing a bus to run for two hours before needing a recharge.
“Greensboro presented a compelling case for electric buses and the need for charging infrastructure,” said Davis Montgomery, Duke Energy government and community relations manager. “We are pleased our grant will further electric transportation in the area.”
Department of Transportation Director Adam Fischer said the Greensboro Transportation Administration is making the transition because the overall life cycle cost of electric buses is $250,000 to $400,000 less than diesel buses due to lower operating and maintenance costs. Electric buses have no exhaust emissions are far quieter than diesel vehicles.
There’s no stench of smoke as they pull away from a stop and little noise as they approach.
Greensboro officials hope to have their first two or three electric buses on the streets by 2018. Greensboro Transportation Authority currently has 11 hybrid buses in operation, but all-electric vehicles are proving to be more cost-efficient due to advances in technology.
Duke Energy has been active in building public charging stations at parking decks, libraries and shopping areas. The grant program is part of a recent settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and environmental groups.