UK Power Networks has invested £4 million in new power infrastructure to support electric buses in Thornton Heath.
The funding, from the Green Recovery Fund, has enabled the installation of a 4.5-megawatt power connection and 5km of high-voltage cabling at Whitehall Road bus depot.
This investment allows Arriva to operate 109 new electric buses on several routes.
The upgrade includes new equipment at a local electricity substation to accommodate the electric buses.
Adam Lakey from UK Power Networks stated: “This investment is a watershed for Thornton Heath bus garage, which can now electrify its bus fleet and usher in a new age of cleaner, greener electric public transport.”
Nick Owen, Director of buses at Transport for London, said: “London’s red buses are iconic and the fleet is one of the greenest in the world, with lower carbon dioxide emissions per passenger kilometres compared to other global cities like New York, Paris and Vancouver.
“With more than 1,500 zero emission vehicles on London’s roads, our programme of decarbonising the capital’s buses is playing a crucial role in the journey to net zero.”
Marcos Hart, Managing Director London at Arriva UK Bus said: “Arriva UK Bus is committed to decarbonising our London fleet, and the electrification of our Thornton Heath site builds on the millions of pounds we have already invested in creating the clean, electrified and efficient public transport networks that communities in the capital deserve.”
