Limerick paves the way for zero emission public transport with multi-million euro contract

LIMERICK is set to become the first regional city in Ireland to embrace fully electric public transport.

In a significant step towards achieving a greener and more sustainable bus system, Bus Éireann, has signed a three million euro contract with Hitachi Energy Ireland, to spearhead the electrification of its depot in Roxboro.

This project is funded by the National Transport Authority as part of the transformation of Ireland’s urban bus fleets to zero tailpipe emission vehicles.

Hitachi will work with Bus Éireann to deliver a new on site MV electricity substation, install 24 charge points, carry out all civil and cabling works and the commissioning of the charging infrastructure.

With over four million passengers on its seven Limerick city routes annually, this work is said to be completed in advance of the delivery of 20 double-deck battery electric buses purchased by the National Transport Authority. Combined with the 20 hybrid vehicles already operating in Limerick, the TFI Limerick City fleet are said to be either zero or low tailpipe emissions from early 2024.

"It is just over three months since the Athlone town bus service became fully electric and the project has been very successful to date with 100,000 kilometres operated safely and without incident," said Stephen Kent, Chief Executive Officer, Bus Éireann.

"Passenger numbers are at record levels," he continued, "77 tonnes of carbon emissions have been avoided and at this early stage, it appears that the range being achieved is up to 20% better than expectations."

He added, "the electrification of the depot at Roxboro will really change public transport in Limerick for the better, in terms of environmental impact and also a greatly enhanced customer experience with quieter, smoother journeys."

Mr Kent also stated that combined with the NTA’s BusConnects and investment in a new bus station at Colbert, Limerick will be in "the forefront of bus public transport developments this year."