First Bus will invest £2.5m to install more than 6,000 solar photovoltaic (PV) panels at depots across the UK as part of its net zero emissions strategy.
The panels are being fitted at 20 sites, such as on the roofs of engineering workshops, and will cover around 11,000 square metres. At peak output, the panels would produce about two million kWhs per year, contributing to depot lighting, heating, office equipment and engineering bays.
Manchester supplier CorEnergy UK has begun installations at many of the sites, with the entire project expected to be completed in June.
The investment is First Bus’s latest step to fulfil its pledge to reduce its carbon footprint, with the aim to achieve a zero emission bus fleet by 2035 and net zero emissions across its operations by 2050 or earlier.
Jon Tivey, Head of Environment at First Bus UK, said: “We are delighted to announce the rollout of our solar PV programme across the UK, which will help us to significantly reduce our carbon emissions across 20 sites.
“This is yet another milestone in our transition to a low-carbon future across every aspect of our operations.
“As one of the largest bus operators in the UK, it’s important that we lead the way in the industry and set an example for others to follow.”
