Brixton bus garage gets net zero boost

Environmentally-friendly buses are operating from a South West London bus garage, thanks to a new electricity connection.

UK Power Networks has completed work at Arriva Brixton to enable new electric buses to charge overnight, with the project representing a major contribution towards reducing local pollution levels, while helping to enable the UK’s transition to net zero.

The delivery team installed new cables to provide additional power at the garage, which will deliver supplies for 22 electric buses operating on route 319 from Streatham Hill to Sloane Square in London.

The work has reduced running costs for the bus garage, which is able to charge its new fleet when local electricity demand is very low.

Irvine Nyamapfene, Project Manager at UK Power Networks, says: “This is bringing another breath of fresh air to Londoners, and we are pleased to be playing a key part in the city looking forward to a greener future.”

Chiara Lorenzetti, Engineering Programme Manager at Arriva Brixton, says: “Access to power is an essential step on the journey towards decarbonisation and we were delighted to partner with UK Power Networks who effectively played such a key role in enabling the delivery of zero emission journeys for Londoners using our new electric routes.”

UK Power Networks has enabled more than 500 buses in the capital to turn electric over the last few years to help meet the government’s 2050 target of net zero emissions.

Louise Cheeseman, Director of buses at TfL, says: “These works at Brixton garage are helping to drive forward our zero-emission bus agenda, giving bus operators the capacity to charge the significant number of vehicles now operating in London. London has one of the largest and greenest fleets in the world, but we won’t stop until every single one of the capital’s buses is releasing zero emissions. With their smooth, quiet journeys and innovative features, zero emission buses don’t just help reduce the effects of climate change and improve air quality – they help to make our city better for everyone and offer a great alternative to the car when getting around town.”