ATN receives $5Mn to solar-charge growing e-bus fleet

The Anaheim Transportation Network (ATN) wants to become California’s first all-electric transit operator. While we leave that claim open, they will be among the first to charge their e-buses with solar energy, also using Tesla equipment.

The California Energy Commission just awarded a $5 million grant to that end which ATN wants to use to acquire charging stations, batteries, and said solar infrastructure. This infrastructure includes multiple Tesla MegaPack battery energy storage systems, microgrid controller units, and heavy-duty battery charging stations at ATN’s facilities in Anaheim, near Los Angeles.

“This investment will assist ATN in delivering a world-class electric bus fleet that will not only benefit passengers but will also enhance the air quality for the entire region,” stated Diana Kotler, ATN Executive Director. “In addition to ATN’s own investments, we have been working to establish partnerships and other local funding opportunities to realize the environmental and economic benefits of a fully solar-charged bus fleet,” added Kotler.

AMPLY Power will help ATN manage the entire charging operation from system design, installation, and maintenance. This 20-year contract includes constructing a 545kW solar canopy that provides 25 per cent of the total expected energy consumption. AMPLY selected REC Solar to install the solar panels.

The transit operator already runs electric buses and says it transports more than 9.5 million passengers each year using a fleet of 81 buses and 10 micro-transit vehicles. So far, reports count 46 electric buses with ATN aiming for 100% zero-emissions in future.

amplypower.com, renewableenergymagazine.com (please note, image is generic)