Stagecoach is accelerating its electrification goals with the completion of a major project at its Chesterfield depot.
Working alongside VEV, the company has laid the foundation for a greener future.
Set to launch in Spring 2025, Chesterfield’s 57 electric buses will replace more than two-thirds of Stagecoach’s diesel fleet, serving Chesterfield and northeastern Derbyshire.
This ambitious initiative received funding from multiple sources, including the ZEBRA2 government scheme, Derbyshire County Council, and Stagecoach’s own investment.
The depot now features 27 dual direct current (DC) 120 kilowatts chargers with 54 sockets, supported by a 2.5MVA power upgrade.
A 234kWp rooftop solar array is under construction at the site, projected to generate around 200MWh annually, cutting energy costs nearly in half compared to grid electricity and reducing carbon emissions by approximately 48 tonnes each year.
VEV’s tailored approach included fleet analysis, smart charging implementation, and ongoing operational support.
The integration of the VEV-IQ energy management platform enables dynamic load management and smart power purchasing. By leveraging telematics data, VEV-IQ provides real-time insights to streamline operations and maintain cost-efficiency.
Mike Nakrani, CEO of VEV, states: “This is more than just installing chargers—it’s about creating a seamless transition to electric operations, supported by ongoing intelligence and optimization through our VEV-IQ platform.”
“Stagecoach is now positioned not only to cut costs but also to lead the industry with sophisticated fleet and energy management,” he adds.
The Chesterfield depot sets a new standard for public transport electrification, with similar projects planned for Leamington, Nuneaton, and Rugby.
Tony Cockcroft, Asset Management Director of Stagecoach, said: “The Chesterfield depot is a major milestone in our electrification journey, providing the insights and control we need to optimize our fleet operations and move closer to a fully electric future.”
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