Transport for NSW is calling for expressions of interest from stakeholders in the energy, transport, manufacturing and financing sectors to participate in trials of zero emission buses and associated technologies.
According to Transport for NSW Deputy Secretary, Greater Sydney Elizabeth Mildwater, the trials are part of the NSW Government’s strategy to transition the entire public bus fleet to zero emissions.
“The release of the request for expressions of interest builds on a market sounding process conducted in early 2019, which demonstrated a high level of interest in developing and running trials of environmentally friendly zero emission buses and infrastructure,” she said.
“The collaborative development of trials confirms NSW as a nationwide leader in exploring solutions to challenging problems, with the transport sector the second largest – and fastest growing – source of greenhouse gas emissions.”
Ms. Mildwater said the state government is committed to taking advantage of new technology that reduces the impact of diesel buses on air quality and human health.
“We have to meet our environmental challenges head-on and learn from cities around the world,” she said.
“Bus patronage in Sydney has grown remarkably over the last few years and we must continue to meet future demand in a sustainable way.”
Zero emission technology not only has the potential to reduce emissions, Ms. Mildwater said, but also reduce operational costs.
“These trials are a crucial step towards this goal and will provide us with important findings about future infrastructure and energy needs,” she said.
“It is essential that we collaborate with industry to trial and develop the most innovative, effective and sustainable new technology and approaches for our local transport needs.”
The program will explore multiple trials of zero emission technology including battery electric and hydrogen buses, with trials undertaken in partnership with transport operators in the Sydney and Outer metropolitan areas.
EOIs will remain open for three months.
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